Future distribution systems are expected to display increased complexity, mainly due to looped/meshed operation, switch between grid-connected and islanded mode and considerable integration of distributed generation. This paper investigates a plug-and-play protection solution for overhead distribution systems with such variable operation conditions, employing existing numerical relay capabilities. This solution is applied by designing plug-and-play, communication-assisted, multifunctional relays with integrated protection element settings, which apply universally to all distribution system conditions, rendering the protection scheme independent of a specific system. Hence, the need for user-defined settings or future revisions due to system changes is eliminated. The scheme ensures coordination between main line relays and backup protection of laterals, without a coordination study. There is no need to replace or modify existing lateral protection means for this purpose; only their known time-overcurrent curves are uploaded to the relays by the user. The scheme is described and evaluated through simulations in two test systems. Meaningful conclusions are finally derived.