LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) is a protocol designed for accessing and managing directories over a network. It is a standard method used for querying and modifying information stored in a directory service.
A directory service is a centralized database that stores and organizes information about users, groups, resources, and other network objects. LDAP provides a way to access, search, and update this information, making it an essential component in many network-based applications.
LDAP operates on a client-server model. The client sends requests to the server, and the server responds with the requested data or performs the requested operation. The protocol uses a standardized set of operations, such as search, add, delete, modify, and compare, to manipulate the directory entries.
LDAP directories are hierarchical in nature, consisting of a tree-like structure with a root, branches, and leaves. Each object in the directory is represented by an entry, which contains attributes with associated values. Entries can be organized into different containers called Directory Information Trees (DITs), allowing for logical segmentation of the directory.
LDAP supports authentication and authorization mechanisms, enabling secure access to directory information. It is commonly used in various applications, including user authentication systems, email services, network management, and more.
Overall, LDAP serves as a significant tool for managing and retrieving directory information efficiently, providing a standardized and interoperable solution for accessing directory services across different platforms and operating systems.
