Samba; Introduction To Samba; Samba Features - Red Hat ENTERPRISE LINUX 4.5.0 Reference Manual

Chapter 14.

Samba

Samba is an open source implementation of the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. It
allows the networking of Microsoft Windows®, Linux, UNIX, and other operating systems
together, enabling access to Windows-based file and printer shares. Samba's use of SMB
allows it to appear as a Windows server to Windows clients.

1. Introduction to Samba

The third major release of Samba, version 3.0.0, introduced numerous improvements from prior
versions, including:
• The ability to join an Active Directory domain by means of LDAP and Kerberos
• Built in Unicode support for internationalization
• Support for Microsoft Windows XP Professional client connections to Samba servers without
needing local registry hacking
• Two new documents developed by the Samba.org team, which include a 400+ page
reference manual, and a 300+ page implementation and integration manual. For more
information about these published titles, refer to

1.1. Samba Features

Samba is a powerful and versatile server application. Even seasoned system administrators
must know its abilities and limitations before attempting installation and configuration.
What Samba can do:
• Serve directory trees and printers to Linux, UNIX, and Windows clients
• Assist in network browsing (with or without NetBIOS)
• Authenticate Windows domain logins
• Provide Windows Internet Name Service (WINS) name server resolution
• Act as a Windows NT®-style Primary Domain Controller (PDC)
• Act as a Backup Domain Controller (BDC) for a Samba-based PDC
• Act as an Active Directory domain member server
• Join a Windows NT/2000/2003 PDC
What Samba cannot do:
Section 9.3, "Related Books".
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