Final answer:
A directory service is a central database used to manage a network and enable users to quickly find a particular resource.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central database is referred to as a directory service.
This directory service, such as Active Directory in a Windows network, is used to manage a network and enable users to quickly find a particular resource. It stores information about computers, users, shared printers, shared folders, and other network resources. The directory service organizes these resources in a hierarchical structure and provides a way for users to authenticate and access them.
For example, if a user wants to find a shared folder on the network, they can use the directory service to search for it based on its name or location. The directory service provides the necessary information for the user to access the shared folder.
A Directory Service serves as a centralized repository for managing and organizing information about network resources, facilitating efficient network administration and resource access for users.