1.The client application binds with Server A, and Server A tries to confirm that the user name and password are correct.

2.Server A does not contain an entry corresponding to the client application. Instead, it contains a database link to Server B, which contains the actual entry of the client. Server A sends a bind request to Server B.

3.Server B sends an acceptance response to Server A.

4.Server A then processes the client application's request using another database link. The database link contacts a remote data store located on Server C to process the search operation.

Unsupported access controls Database links do not support the following access controls:

Controls that must access the content of the user entry are not supported when the user entry is located on a different server. This includes access controls based on groups, filters, and roles.

Controls based on client IP addresses or DNS domains may be denied. This is because the database link impersonates the client when it contacts remote servers. If the remote database contains IP-based access controls, it evaluates them using the database link's domain rather than the original client domain.

5.4Using indexes to improve database performance

Searches performed by client applications can be time and resource intensive, depending on the size of the databases. To help alleviate this problem, use indexes to improve search performance.

Indexes are files stored in the directory databases. Separate index files are maintained for each database in the directory service. Each file is named according to the attribute it indexes. The index file for a particular attribute can contain multiple types of indexes, so several types of index can be maintained for each attribute. For example, a file called cn.db4 contains all the indexes for the common name attribute.

Different types of indexes are used depending on the types of applications that use the directory service. Different applications may frequently search for a particular attribute, or may search the directory in a different language, or may require data in a particular format.

5.4.1 Overview of directory index types

Directory Server supports the following types of index:

Presence index

Lists entries that possess a particular attribute, such as uid.

Equality index

Lists entries that contain a specific attribute value, such as cn=Babs Jensen.

Approximate index

Allows approximate (or "sounds-like") searches. For example, an entry might contain the attribute value of cn=Babs L. Jensen. An approximate search would return this value for searches against cn~=Babs Jensen, cn~=Babs, and cn~=Jensen.

NOTE:

Approximate indexes require that names be written in English using ASCII characters.

Substring index

Allows searches against substrings within entries. For example, a search for cn=*derson would match common names containing this string (such as Bill Anderson, Norma Henderson, and Steve Sanderson).

70 Designing the directory topology

Page 70
Image 70
HP UX Direry Server manual Using indexes to improve database performance, Overview of directory index types

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.