The shared domain can also allow users to access resources on other servers that are bound to the domain. Mac OS X Server relies on shared Open Directory domains to provide network user accounts that can be used to log into computers that are bound to a shared domain. This local domain allows each user to have a computing experience and home directory, and the local domain works with the file system to manage permissions on files and folders. Mac OS X’s native directory service is called Open Directory.Įvery Mac OS X computer includes a local Open Directory database-referred to as a domain-that stores information about local user accounts.

These services provide a database for central account management for both user and computer, as well as a framework for sharing that information among workstations and servers. For more Mac coverage, visitĬomputerworld’s Macintosh Knowledge Center.ĭirectory services are a critical component of any enterprise environment. Editor’s Note: This story is reprinted fromĬomputerworld.

Share windows directory for mac