Newbi question

[tokra]

I have to configure an LDAP server so iplanet can authenticate users. It seems like it's a database that has a hirarchy. So here are some questions pertaining to the technology in general.
1:Why can't I store the data in an actual RDBMS or an XML file? What solutions does LDAP provide?
2:some attributes such as dn cn o ou seem to have special meanings. Is this convention or standard?
3:How do you tell if you are looking at a leaf node or the root element that has more than 1 attribute?


WR

 

[ldap4u]

1. Here is a link that shows why one might choose LDAP over RDBMS

http://www.ldapzone.com/004_general_interest.html

(at the end in particular)

2. DN (distinguished name) has a special meaning - as each entry will have one - and only one dn. It is the attribute that distinguishes it from all others in the directory. cn o and ou are examples of what type of entries you may store in the directory (in fact - they will make up the DN). Each of these attributes are based on standards to govern the behavior of the data and the type of information it holds.

3. There are several ways to find out ... One would be a good understanding of the structure of the LDAP instance you are working with (commonly referred to as the Directory Information Tree or DIT). Additionally the utilization of LDAP queries with proper attribute search filters will allow you to distinguish between the two. Finally - a good browser will allow you to drill down into each root element until you get to an individual entry.

HTH