What is Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP)?

LDAP is an industry-standard, open protocol used to access and manage directory information services. It enables the sharing of information about users, systems, networks, services, and applications.

What is LDAP used for?

LDAP directories can be used to provide a store of user login information such as usernames and passwords– which can be accessed by clients with the LDAP protocol for authenticating and authorizing users. User entries may contain attributes other than credentials, such as phone number, other identifiers like employee number, address, groups memberships, and so on.