Final answer:
LDAP is a Lightweight Directory Access Protocol that serves as a directory access protocol used to query and manage information in directory service databases over network.
Step-by-step explanation:
LDAP stands for Lightweight Directory Access Protocol, and it is an example of a Directory access protocol. It is utilized for accessing and maintaining distributed directory information services over an Internet Protocol (IP) network. Essentially, LDAP is used by various software and services to query and modify items in directory service databases like those that support user information, system information, or network resources.
It functions on a client-server model, where the client requests information and the server responds with the directory data. This data could relate to things such as user contact details, usernames, passwords, or the configuration settings for a network environment. LDAP is a crucial component of many user authentication systems, email services, and organizational systems, as it helps centralize and manage user data.