Directory Services
Directory Services are centralized software systems that store, organize, and provide access to information about network resources, such as users, computers, and applications, in a hierarchical structure. They enable authentication, authorization, and management of identities and resources across an organization's IT infrastructure. Common implementations include Microsoft Active Directory and LDAP-based services like OpenLDAP.
Developers should learn Directory Services when building enterprise applications that require centralized user authentication, single sign-on (SSO), or integration with organizational IT systems. They are essential for managing access control in corporate environments, enabling secure login across multiple services, and automating user provisioning and deprovisioning processes.