HP-UX Directory Server 8.1 schema reference

1.4 Extending the schema
The Directory Server schema includes hundreds of object classes and attributes that can be used
to meet most of directory requirements. This schema can be extended with new object classes
and attributes that meet evolving requirements for the directory service in the enterprise by
creating custom schema files.
When adding new attributes to the schema, a new object class should be created to contain them.
Adding a new attribute to an existing object class can compromise the Directory Server's
compatibility with existing LDAP clients that rely on the standard LDAP schema and may cause
difficulties when upgrading the server.
For more information about extending server schema, see the HP-UX Directory Server deployment
guide.
1.5 Schema checking
Schema checking means that the Directory Server checks every entry when it is created, modified,
or in a database imported using LDIF to make sure that it complies with the schema definitions
in the schema files. Schema checking verifies three things:
• Object classes and attributes used in the entry are defined in the directory schema.
• Attributes required for an object class are contained in the entry.
• Only attributes allowed by the object class are contained in the entry.
You should run Directory Server with schema checking turned on. For information on enabling
schema checking, see the Administrator's Guide.
14 About Directory Server schema