Lightweight Directory Access Protocol

Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) is a client/server protocol. It is commonly used for managing directory information. It was developed as a front end to X.500 Directory Access Protocol. Now, it is used to read and edit directories over IP networks and can run over TCP/IP using simple string formats for data transfer. It is a popular tool as it is user-friendly.

As the access protocol device is cross-platform and standards-based, the type of server hosting the directory becomes immaterial. The LDAP servers can be installed easily and quickly. It can be maintained and optimized effortlessly. It does a great job of processing queries and updating the information directory.

Users can use the push or pull method for replicating data with LDAP servers. The technology used in the LDAP makes configuration easy. Security checks are not required at the application level as it is done directly through the LDAP directory. Small, large and public LDAP servers are available.