LDAP is an acronym for what protocol?

LDAP stands for Lightweight Directory Access Protocol. This protocol is primarily designed to provide a way to access and maintain distributed directory information services over an Internet Protocol (IP) network. LDAP is commonly used for storing organizational data such as user identities, passwords, and other information that can be grouped hierarchically.

The term "Lightweight" in LDAP highlights its efficiency compared to previous directory access protocols, making it more suitable for accessing directory services over networks, particularly in environments where speed and performance are crucial. LDAP is widely used in various applications, including email and web applications, where user information can be stored and retrieved efficiently from a directory.

The other options are not recognized or established protocols in the context of directory services, making them incorrect in this scenario. Understanding LDAP is essential for those involved in network security and administration, as it plays a key role in user authentication and authorization in many systems and applications.