A directory of names, profile information and machine addresses of every user and resource on the network. It is used to manage user accounts and network permissions. When sent a user name, it returns the attributes of that individual, which may include a telephone number as well as an e-mail address. Directory services use highly specialized databases that are typically hierarchical in design and provide fast lookups. See x.500, LDAP, naming service, Active Directory and ULS server.
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