Identity, Access, and Authentication Tools

Free and open-source solutions for managing user identities and centralized authentication in public libraries

Quick Reference Guide

NeedRecommended ToolBest For
Complete Identity ManagementFreeIPALinux environments with centralized auth
Enterprise LDAP Directory389 Directory ServerHigh-performance user/group storage
Lightweight Directory ServiceOpenLDAPFoundation for authentication systems
Java-based LDAP/KerberosApache Directory ServerOrganizations using Java infrastructure
Easy LDAP ManagementFusionDirectoryWeb-based user/group administration

Identity Management & Directory Services

Most PopularIntermediate
FreeIPA

Complete Identity Management System

Centralized authentication, authorization, and account information management. Integrates with Linux servers and is Active Directory-compatible.

License: GPL (Open Source)

LinuxLDAPKerberos
RecommendedIntermediate
389 Directory Server

Enterprise-Grade LDAP Directory

Enterprise-grade LDAP directory server maintained by Red Hat. Ideal for storing user and group information with high performance and reliability.

License: GPL (Open Source)

LinuxLDAP
Intermediate
OpenLDAP

Lightweight Directory Protocol

Lightweight, open-source LDAP implementation for centralized directory management. Foundation for many authentication systems.

License: OpenLDAP Public License

Multi-platformLDAP
Intermediate
Apache Directory Server

Java-based LDAP & Kerberos

Java-based LDAP and Kerberos server with GUI tools (Apache Directory Studio) for easier administration.

License: Apache License 2.0

Multi-platformJavaLDAP
Beginner
FusionDirectory

Web-based LDAP Management

Web interface for managing LDAP data, works well with OpenLDAP. Simplifies user and group management with an intuitive GUI.

License: GPL (Open Source)

Web/ServerLDAP

Getting Started with Identity Management

Why Use Identity Management?
  • Centralized user authentication across multiple systems
  • Single sign-on (SSO) capabilities for library services
  • Simplified user account management
  • Enhanced security with consistent password policies
  • Integration with existing library management systems
Common Use Cases
  • Managing staff and patron accounts centrally
  • Authenticating users for public computers
  • Integrating with ILS and digital library platforms
  • Controlling access to WiFi and network resources
  • Providing unified login for multiple library services