The databases could be stored on a single server or multiple servers depending on resource constraints.

4.2.2 Creating the directory tree structure

Decide whether to use a flat or a hierarchical tree structure. As a general rule, try to make the directory tree as flat as possible. However, a certain amount of hierarchy can be important later when information is partitioned across multiple databases, prepare replication, and set access controls.

The structure of the tree involves the following steps and considerations:

•“Branching the directory”

•“Identifying branch points”

•“Replication considerations”

•“Access control considerations”

4.2.2.1Branching the directory

Design the hierarchy to avoid problematic name changes. The flatter a namespace is, the less likely the names are to change. The likelihood of a name changing is roughly proportional to the number of components in the name that can potentially change. The more hierarchical the directory tree, the more components in the names, and the more likely the names are to change.

Following are some guidelines for designing the directory tree hierarchy:

•Branch the tree to represent only the largest organizational subdivisions in the enterprise.

Any such branch points should be limited to divisions (Corporate Information Services, Customer Support, Sales and Professional Services, and so forth). Make sure that the divisions used to branch the directory tree are stable; do not perform this kind of branching if the enterprise reorganizes frequently.

•Use functional or generic names rather than actual organizational names for the branch points.

Names change, and it is really bad to have to change the directory tree every time the enterprise renames its divisions. Instead, use generic names that represent the function of the organization (for example, use Engineering instead of Widget Research and Development).

•If there are multiple organizations that perform similar functions, try creating a single branch point for that function instead of branching based along divisional lines.

For example, even if there are multiple marketing organizations, each of which is responsible for a specific product line, create a single ou=Marketing subtree. All marketing entries then belong to that tree.

Branching in an enterprise environment Name changes can be avoided if the directory tree structure is based on information that is not likely to change. For example, base the structure on types of objects in the tree rather than organizations. This helps avoid shuffling an entry between organizational units, which requires modifying the distinguished name (DN), which is an expensive operation.

There are a handful of common objects that are good to use to define the structure:

•ou=people

•ou=groups

•ou=services

A directory tree organized using these objects might appear as shown below.

4.2 Designing the directory tree

41

Page 40 Page 42
Page 41
Image 41
HP UX Direry Server manual Creating the directory tree structure, Branching the directory
Page 40 Page 42

UX Direry Server specifications

HP UX Directory Server is a robust and scalable solution designed for managing directory information within enterprise networks. Developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP), this server offers an extensive set of features tailored to meet the needs of organizations that require an efficient way to store, manage, and retrieve identity and access data.

One of the key features of HP UX Directory Server is its ability to handle large directories with significant volumes of data. Built on a highly optimized architecture, it provides excellent performance and can support millions of entries without sacrificing speed or reliability. This capability makes it an ideal choice for large-scale deployments in enterprises that require high availability and responsiveness.

In addition to its scalability, HP UX Directory Server supports a wide range of protocols, including LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol), which ensures seamless integration with diverse applications and systems across various platforms. The server maintains standards compliance, which facilitates interoperability and simplifies administration tasks.

Security is a top priority for HP UX Directory Server, offering an array of features to protect sensitive information. It supports secure data transmission via TLS/SSL protocols, ensuring encrypted communication between clients and servers. Advanced access controls allow administrators to define fine-grained permissions, helping to safeguard directory data against unauthorized access.

Another salient feature of HP UX Directory Server is its replication capabilities. The server can replicate directory data across multiple instances, ensuring data consistency and availability in distributed environments. This feature is essential for businesses operating across different geographical locations or requiring failover solutions for disaster recovery.

HP UX Directory Server also comes equipped with tools for data management, including an intuitive administration console for configuring and monitoring the server. Additionally, it offers customizable schema capabilities, enabling organizations to tailor the directory structure to fit their specific needs.

Integration with existing identity management solutions is streamlined through connectors and APIs, allowing organizations to extend their directory services and enhance user experience.

In summary, HP UX Directory Server is a powerful directory management solution that combines scalability, security, and integration flexibility. Its support for industry standards, advanced replication, and comprehensive administrative tools makes it an essential asset for organizations seeking to manage identity and access efficiently. By leveraging this technology, businesses can improve their operational efficiency and ensure a secure and organized approach to directory management.
Top Page Image Contents