The o=NetscapeRoot and dc=example,dc=com suffixes are both root suffixes. The

ou=testing,dc=example,dc=com suffix, the ou=development,dc=example,dc=com suffix, and the ou=partners,ou=development,dc=example,dc=com suffix are all subsuffixes of the dc=example,dc=com root suffix. The root suffix dc=example,dc=com contains the data in the ou=marketing branch of the original directory tree.

Using multiple root suffixes The directory service might contain more than one root suffix. For example, an ISP called "Example" might host several websites, one for example_a.com and one for example_b.com. The ISP would create two root suffixes, one corresponding to the o=example_a.com naming context and one corresponding to the o=example_b.com naming context. The directory tree would appear as follows:

Figure 5-6 Directory tree with multiple root suffixes

The dc=example, dc=com entry represents a root suffix. The entry for each hosted ISP is also a root suffix (o=example_a and o=example_b). The ou=people and the ou=groups branches are subsuffixes under each root suffix.

5.3 About knowledge references

After distributing the data over several databases, define the relationship between the distributed data using knowledge references, pointers to directory information held in different databases. The Directory Server provides the following types of knowledge references to help link the distributed data into a single directory tree:

Referrals

The server returns a piece of information to the client application indicating that

 

the client application needs to contact another server to fulfill the request.

Chaining

The server contacts other servers on behalf of the client application and returns

 

the combined results to the client application when the operation is finished.

The following sections describe and compare these two types of knowledge references in more detail.

5.3.1 Using referrals

A referral is a piece of information returned by a server that informs a client application which server to contact to proceed with an operation request. This redirection mechanism occurs when a client application requests a directory entry that does not exist on the local server.

Directory Server supports two types of referrals:

Default referrals

The directory returns a default referral when a client application

 

presents a DN for which the server does not have a matching suffix.

 

Default referrals are stored in the configuration file of the server. One

62 Designing the directory topology

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HP UX Direry Server manual About knowledge references, Using referrals

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.