LDAP
Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) is a widely-used, open-standard protocol for accessing and managing distributed directory information services over IP networks. LDAP enables organizations to store and manage user identities, groups, and other data in a centralized repository, allowing for efficient authentication, authorization, and directory management. Secure LDAP (LDAPS) extends the protocol to provide encryption and authentication using Transport Layer Security (TLS) or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), ensuring confidentiality and integrity of data in transit. OpenLDAP is a popular, open-source implementation of the LDAP protocol, providing a scalable and customizable directory server solution that supports a range of platforms and applications. With its flexibility, scalability, and security features, LDAP remains a fundamental technology for identity management, authentication, and authorization in modern computing environments.