Directory Utility

Directory Utility

Directory Utility is a macOS application that allows users to configure connections to directory services. It is primarily used to manage network accounts and authentication services on macOS systems. This tool is essential for integrating macOS computers into network environments that use directory services such as Active Directory, LDAP, and Open Directory.

Overview

Directory Utility provides a graphical interface for configuring directory service settings. It is typically used by system administrators to connect macOS computers to network directories, enabling centralized management of user accounts and authentication.

Features

• Directory Services Configuration: Directory Utility allows administrators to configure connections to various directory services, including Active Directory, LDAP, and Open Directory.
• Authentication Management: It supports authentication methods such as Kerberos, allowing for secure and centralized user authentication.
• Service Discovery: The application can discover available directory services on the network, simplifying the process of connecting to them.
• Advanced Options: Administrators can configure advanced options such as search policies, mappings, and custom attributes.

Usage

To access Directory Utility, users can navigate to System Preferences > Users & Groups, then click on Login Options and select Join next to Network Account Server. Alternatively, it can be directly accessed via /System/Library/CoreServices/Applications/Directory Utility.app.

Connecting to Active Directory

1. Open Directory Utility. 2. Click the lock icon to make changes and authenticate as an administrator. 3. Select the Active Directory service and click Edit. 4. Enter the domain name and computer ID. 5. Configure advanced options if necessary, such as user experience and administrative settings. 6. Click OK to join the domain.

Connecting to LDAP

1. Open Directory Utility. 2. Click the lock icon to make changes and authenticate as an administrator. 3. Select the LDAPv3 service and click Edit. 4. Add a new LDAP server by entering the server's address. 5. Configure the search base and mappings as required. 6. Click OK to save the settings.

Troubleshooting

Common issues with Directory Utility include:

• Connection Failures: Ensure network connectivity and correct server addresses.
• Authentication Errors: Verify user credentials and authentication settings.
• Service Discovery Problems: Check network settings and service availability.

See Also

• Active Directory
• LDAP
• Open Directory
• Kerberos (protocol)

References

• Apple Support: Use Directory Utility on your Mac
• Apple Developer Documentation: Open Directory

External Links

• macOS Server