Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Practice Test

Which type of database does LDAP use for authorization?

1. Flat file database

2. Hierarchical database

3. Relational database

4. NoSQL database

The correct answer is: Hierarchical database

LDAP, which stands for Lightweight Directory Access Protocol, utilizes a hierarchical database structure for storing and managing directory information. This hierarchical model organizes data in a tree-like structure, where each entry can have one or more attributes, and entries can be nested within one another. This design facilitates efficient searching and retrieval of user data and permissions by reflecting the natural organization of information within an organization, such as users, groups, and other resources. This hierarchical arrangement allows LDAP to efficiently manage various types of data, such as user identities, roles, and permissions, making it an effective solution for authorization purposes. The use of a hierarchical database ensures that related data can be easily accessed and manipulated, aligning with the way authorization and access controls are typically structured in directory services.