"LDAP stands for Lightweight Directory Access Protocol. It is a protocol that makes it possible for applications to quickly query and locate user information. Companies store static data, including usernames, passwords, email addresses, printer connections, and other data in directories. LDAP is an open, vendor-neutral application protocol for accessing and maintaining these directories and the data they contain. LDAP can also manage authentication, enabling users to sign in once and then access many different files on the server. This is known as single sign-on. LDAP is a protocol, so it doesn't manage the directory programs. Rather, it allows database administrators to manage the directories so users can find the information they need."