As engineers, we are often encouraged to use the right tool for the job. Maybe that is because we tend to grow too attached to the familiar. When we’ve got a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
Apache Directory Server is one of those tools that is often overlooked. This is unfortunate because it’s a high functioning LDAP server and ideally suited for certain types of problems. It augments existing enterprise directory solutions across development and production environments.
Its simplicity of setup makes it ideally suited for machines running in the Cloud. It is no harder to manage than any common Java-based app that runs on the desktop.
It’s a viable alternative for LDAP and is competently supported by an experienced staff of volunteers inside the Apache Directory project. It’s been around for over 10 years and isn’t going away anytime soon.
With these kinds of thoughts in mind I introduce to you the ApacheDS and Fortress Quickstart: