Introduction to the Directory Server Interface

The Netscape directory server is a robust, scalable server for storing, querying, and managing an enterprise-wide directory of users and information. Using the directory server, corporate IS organizations can manage information from a single point of control, and employees can retrieve this information from multiple network locations.

The directory server provides a simple interface to corporate user information. From this interface, you can:

• Search the directory for information about users and resources. For example, you can search for an employee's email address or phone number. You can find more information about searching the directory in Chapter 2, "Searching the Directory Tree."
• Create a new entry in the directory. For example, you can add information about a new employee, such as the employee's name and phone number. This feature is usually reserved only for users who have authenticated properly to the directory server, and who have been granted write permissions by the directory administrator. For information about adding new users, groups, organizational units, and organizations to the directory, see Chapter 3, "Adding Entries."
• Modify existing entries in the directory. For example, if you have the appropriate permissions, you can change existing values to entry attributes, delete the entire entry, rename the entry, or change the password for the entry. This feature is usually reserved only for users who have been granted write permissions by the directory administrator, and have authenticated properly to the directory server. For instructions on updating information about users, groups, organizational units, and organizations, see Chapter 4, "Editing Entries."
• Authenticate to the Directory Server. If your directory manager has made authentication a requirement for accessing or writing to the directory server, you may need to enter your user name and password. While the exact authentication requirements vary from site to site, the directory server typically requires authentication only if you are adding, modifying, or deleting an entry in the directory. For details on authenticating to the directory server, see Chapter 5, "Authentication."