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.
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 Section 14.9.3 Related Books.
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
