• A Sun Java System Directory Proxy Service ties the simplicity of an active directory to computer network access.telefonbuch image by Angie Lingnau from Fotolia.com
  
  Sun Directory Proxy Service is shorthand for Sun Java System Directory Proxy Service. A Directory Proxy Service uses an LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) application to control access to a computer network. The proxy service takes all access requests on the network and runs them against the directory, confirming identity and assigning privileges. Sun Directory Proxy Service uses LDAP to manage access to servers, computers on the network and the wireless network.
  
  

Advantages for Users

• Sun Directory Proxy Service allows users to log in on any computer in a network and be given the same rights and privileges as on their own desktop computer.
  
  If the Sun Directory Proxy Service is deployed across many company locations, mobile users will have access at any corporate location as long as their Active Directory status gives them permission to access the network.
  
  Sun Directory Proxy Services has an optional "Identity Synchronization for Windows" that allows the Sun Directory Proxy Service password to also be the desktop computer password, allowing users a single password for authentication on their computer and their network. A Sun Directory Proxy Service can be set up to allow users to have a single password to access computers, as well as any applications that require login on the computer. Users then have to enter their password once upon login instead of entering multiple passwords to log into the network, their computer, and any password-protected software applications.
  
  

Advantages for IT Support

• Access control limits can be tied to users based on their directory profiles. For example, access to financial files can be granted automatically to users in the finance department. Users with a managerial role above another user within the active directory can be automatically set up to view and approve the time card of their subordinates. Role-based access controls can be deployed and maintained quickly.
  
  Sun Directory Proxy Services that use LDAP reduce the occurrence of forgotten passwords because the user can have the same password for everything. This reduces technical support costs and minimizes delays in getting access restored to the network.
  
  IT support is simplified when a Sun Directory Proxy Service is tied into an Active Directory. If a user’s ID must be changed, it must be changed only in one location.
  
  

Advantages for IT Security

• Maintenance for IT security is streamlined with Sun Directory Proxy Service. Once a user is removed from the Active Directory, the proxy service access also is turned off. If a user is made inactive in the Sun Active Directory, such as when on a leave of absence or furlough, the proxy service also is rendered inactive. This prevents the account from being used by others during the user's absence.
  
  Sun Directory Proxy Service allows the same password policy to be enforced on all users, all computers, and all password-based applications at once. This simplifies IT system security by requiring only a single application change to be managed and audited.