In order to enable a dynamic handshake procedure, a client device is configured with a list of handshake contributors. The client device initiates a handshake by determining the handshake contributors and writing properties of the handshake contributors in a client handshake, which is then sent to a server device. The client handshake is processed at the server device by invoking an appropriate handler, which handles the handshake result. The server can also send its contributors and their properties to the client. Once the client receives the properties, the client can call an appropriate handler to handle the properties. Connections may be created based on the exchanged properties. New contributors and contributor handlers may be added to both the client and server devices.