I have noticed this application in my Utilities folder once before but haven't really messed with it. I decided to see some options, I noticed one of the options in a checklist was "Active Directory". What does that enable me to do? What does the Directory Access app do?

[Amorya]

It's for connecting your Mac to certain kinds of network service. Active Directory is one of Microsoft's, I believe, and used on quite a lot of company networks.

You probably won't need to use Directory Access unless you're connecting to such a network.

Amorya

Thanks for the reply. Now I understand.

[pcryan5]

I use "DAVE" for connecting my Macbooks to AD at work. Other then the creepiest picture on the box cover it works fine.
Is it NEEDED? No I'm sure I could muddle along - but it does make life easier.

Thursby Software: DAVE

[CatOne]

DAVE isn't Thursby's product for integrating with Active Directory -- rather that's their ADmitMac product.

The Active Directory plug-in in Directory Access can do about 90% of what ADmitMac can do. But unless you know what you're doing in binding your Mac to AD, or you are an IT person with substantial Active Directory experience, this isn't something you need to mess with.

In fact, if you're using the Mac as a home user it's probably best to uncheck every one of these things, save Bonjour, which you cannot disable.

[pcryan5]

<>DAVE isn't Thursby's product for integrating with Active Directory -- rather that's their ADmitMac product.

Well shut my mouth you are right and thanks for this note.

[jasong]

You are right about the creepy product box though . . . brrrr . . .