First, it speeds deployment of applications and equipment by allowing network administrators to set up template configurations in the directory. When new devices are brought online, administrators apply the stored configurations on the fly, instead of having to manually configure them. Directory-based networking also lets administrators apply policies based on the user, not the machine. That way, for instance, users who have been allotted more bandwidth will receive that bandwidth from the switch no matter where they're authenticating from. IT managers can set policy by application as well.
Cisco is also busy porting other software products to the direc tory.
Another product, User Registration Tracking, which began shipping last week, assigns policy to mobile users based on their authentications. Some IT managers said they believe the tools hold enough promise for them to take an active role in their development. We pushed to make sure the inconsistencies were ironed out because standards are always just a baseline for interoperability. We have a large investment in both companies, so we're looking forward to being actively involved. Find out how.