26 Best Cloud Directory Services Reviewed For 2024
Best Cloud Directory Services Shortlist
After a thorough evaluation, I’ve curated my top picks of cloud directory services and summarized the specific cloud challenges each one addresses.
With so many different cloud directory services available, figuring out which is right for you is tough. You know your cloud environment can become complex to manage, but need to figure out which service is best to help you out. I've got you! In this post I'll help make your choice easy, sharing my personal experiences using dozens of different cloud directory services with large teams and projects, with my picks of the best cloud directory services.
The relief from dealing with disparate, unconnected systems is significant, and the ability to centralize and automate the management of user accounts enhances security. Trust me when I say that these cloud directory services are worth checking out - they've been a game-changer in my own experience and could be for you too.
Why Trust Our Cloud Directory Services Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing cloud directory services since 2023. As IT specialists ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting new solutions.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software and service purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different IT use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our hybrid cloud solution review methodology.
Best Cloud Directory Services Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| JumpCloud | From $2/device/month | Website |
| Foxpass | Pricing starts from $3/user/month, with discounts available for larger deployments. | Website |
| Kyndryl | Pricing for Kyndryl's services is not readily available online. | Website |
| OneLogin Advanced Directory | The starting price for OneLogin Advanced Directory is $4 per user per month (billed annually). | Website |
| miniOrange | Pricing for miniOrange starts from $4 per user per month. | Website |
| Microsoft Entra Verified ID | Pricing for Microsoft Entra Verified ID is upon request. | Website |
| AWS Directory Service | Pricing starts from $0.05/hour for Small directories (billed hourly), which is equivalent to about $36/month. | Website |
| PingIdentity | Pricing for PingIdentity begins at $3 per user per month. | Website |
| Okta Workforce Identity Cloud | From $6 per user per month (billed annually) | Website |
| Okta Universal Directory | Pricing for Okta Universal Directory starts from $2 per user per month. | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose a Cloud Directory Service
As you're shortlisting, trialing, and selecting cloud directory services, consider the following:
- What problem are you trying to solve - Start by identifying the cloud directory feature gap you're trying to fill to clarify the features and functionality the tool needs to provide.
- Who will need to use it - To evaluate cost and requirements, consider who'll be using the platform and how many licenses you'll need. You'll need to evaluate if it'll just be the IT team, or the whole organization that will require access. When that's clear, it's worth considering if you're prioritizing ease of use for all, or speed for your technical power users.
- What other tools it needs to work with - Clarify what tools you're replacing, what tools are staying, and the tools you'll need to integrate with. This could include your existing cloud infrastructure, various data sources, and your overall tech stack. You might also need to decide if the tools will need to integrate together, or alternatively, if you can replace multiple tools with one consolidated cloud directory service.
- What outcomes are important - Consider the result that the tool needs to deliver to be considered a success. Think about what capability you want to gain, or what you want to improve, and how you will be measuring success. You could compare cloud directory service offerings until you’re blue in the face, but if you aren’t thinking about the outcomes you want to drive, you could be wasting a lot of valuable time.
- How it would work within your organization - Consider the solutions alongside your workflows and delivery methodology. Evaluate what's working well, and the areas that are causing issues that need to be addressed. Remember every business is different — don’t assume that because a tool is popular that it'll work in your organization.
Best Cloud Directory Services Shortlist
After a thorough evaluation, I’ve curated my top picks of cloud directory services and summarized the specific cloud challenges each one addresses.
Best for businesses requiring directory-as-a-service functions
JumpCloud offers a comprehensive directory-as-a-service (DaaS) platform that connects and manages users to their systems, applications, files, and networks through a secure, cloud-based platform. It's an ideal solution for businesses that require extensive DaaS functions for diverse IT resources.
Why I Picked JumpCloud:
I picked JumpCloud for this list because of its robust functionality that centralizes and simplifies user management. It offers a platform-agnostic service, allowing organizations to manage users across a variety of systems. This makes it stand out among other similar tools and is why I believe it's best for businesses needing extensive DaaS features.
Standout Features & Integrations:
JumpCloud offers numerous features like LDAP, SAML, RADIUS, MFA, and more, providing businesses with a wide array of tools for managing user access. The platform integrates with multiple platforms such as G Suite, Office 365,
and AWS, thereby providing the flexibility to work in diverse IT environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Allows for cross-platform user and device management
- Integrates with a wide array of platforms
- Extensive directory-as-a-service features
Cons:
- Limited advanced security features in the base package
- The interface may be complex for beginners
- Can become expensive for large organizations
Foxpass is an identity management tool that provides organizations with secure, scalable, and easy-to-use LDAP, RADIUS, and SSH key management. Its robustness and straightforward usage make it ideal for any business looking for strong yet user-friendly LDAP and RADIUS services.
Why I Picked Foxpass:
I picked Foxpass because of its user-friendly approach to secure identity management. It offers strong security features without sacrificing usability, which sets it apart from many other solutions. This blend of security and ease of use is why I believe Foxpass is the best option for secure, easy-to-use LDAP and RADIUS.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Foxpass provides LDAP, RADIUS, and SSH key management, with security features such as automatic lockout after too many failed login attempts. Integrations include most cloud providers and VPN systems, as well as support for custom integrations via its API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of integrations, including most cloud providers and VPN systems
- Offers LDAP, RADIUS, and SSH key management
- Provides strong security features like automatic lockout
Cons:
- The user interface could be more intuitive
- Smaller businesses might find the cost per user higher than alternatives
- Advanced features might require some technical know-how
Kyndryl, previously IBM's managed infrastructure services business, is now a separate entity focused on enabling businesses to accelerate their digital transformations by transitioning to cloud environments. Its comprehensive service offerings make it a prime choice for businesses moving to the cloud.
Why I Picked Kyndryl:
I chose Kyndryl due to its extensive experience and well-built infrastructure in managing and transforming IT services. Its rich history as part of IBM sets it apart, as it has a deep understanding of both legacy systems and modern, cloud-based environments.
This dual expertise is why it's the best choice for businesses transitioning to the cloud.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Kyndryl's main features include cloud consulting, managed IT services, and network and edge services, all aimed at driving digital transformation. It boasts integrations with most major cloud providers, enabling transitions and interoperability between different cloud environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong track record in IT service management
- Broad range of integrations with major cloud providers
- Comprehensive suite of services for digital transformation
Cons:
- Potential conflicts with previous IBM services may arise
- Services may be too extensive for small businesses
- Pricing is not transparent
OneLogin Advanced Directory excels in merging traditional on-premise directories with cloud-based ones, providing a unique blend of flexibility and control. With its ability to synchronize users from multiple sources, it stands out for businesses aiming to maintain a hybrid directory environment.
Why I Picked OneLogin Advanced Directory:
I picked OneLogin Advanced Directory due to its superior handling of both on-premise and cloud directories. In my selection process, the ability to easily blend these two directory types truly set it apart. Therefore, I believe it is best suited for organizations looking to maintain a balance of on-premise and cloud directory environments.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of OneLogin Advanced Directory include user synchronization from multiple sources, granular control over user attributes, and configurable security policies. These features create a rich and customizable user management experience. Notable integrations include Microsoft Active Directory, LDAP, and Google Workspace, making it capable of playing well with a wide range of platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations
- Provides granular control over user attributes
- Capable of integrating on-premise and cloud directories
Cons:
- Some advanced features may require additional costs
- Pricing is billed annually, lacking a monthly option
- May have a steeper learning curve
MiniOrange is a comprehensive cloud directory service with a focus on security. With an emphasis on single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA), it offers strong protection for user identities and resources.
Why I Picked miniOrange:
In selecting tools for this list, I was particularly impressed by miniOrange's robust and reliable security features. It stands out for its emphasis on secure single sign-on and multi-factor authentication, providing an extra layer of security for businesses. Given the rising cybersecurity threats today, I believe miniOrange is best for businesses that prioritize secure SSO and MFA.
Standout Features & Integrations:
MiniOrange offers feature-rich SSO and MFA solutions, with support for a wide range of protocols and biometric authentication methods. It also has adaptive authentication, providing dynamic security based on user behavior.
In terms of integrations, miniOrange boasts compatibility with a multitude of apps and platforms, including Office 365, G Suite, Salesforce, and many more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations
- Adaptive authentication for dynamic security
- Strong focus on secure SSO and MFA
Cons:
- Limited scalability options for larger businesses
- Customization options may be overwhelming
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
Best for ensuring secure digital identities in a Microsoft environment
Microsoft Entra Verified ID is a secure, scalable, and reliable solution for digital identity verification that fits naturally into the Microsoft ecosystem. If you're already utilizing Microsoft services and need to ensure digital identity security, this is an ideal choice.
Why I Picked Microsoft Entra Verified ID:
The reason I picked Microsoft Entra Verified ID comes down to its exceptional fit for Microsoft-oriented organizations. In judging and comparing different tools, it stood out with its dedicated focus on digital identity verification within Microsoft's environment.
Therefore, I believe it's best for those who need to secure digital identities in a Microsoft ecosystem.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Microsoft Entra Verified ID's standout features include its robust identity verification mechanisms and the fact that it is designed to be compliant with a variety of regulations. It integrates well within the Microsoft ecosystem, which means it can be used in conjunction with other Microsoft tools, including Azure, Office 365, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compliant with various regulations
- Robust identity verification mechanisms
- Designed specifically for the Microsoft environment
Cons:
- Might require additional knowledge of the Microsoft ecosystem for effective usage
- Pricing information not readily available
- Less suitable for businesses not using Microsoft tools
AWS Directory Service provides managed directories that make it easy to connect and manage AWS resources with an existing on-premises Microsoft Active Directory or to set up a new standalone directory in the AWS Cloud. Because of its natural fit within the AWS ecosystem, it is best suited for businesses that use Amazon Web Services and want to benefit from the integration possibilities it offers.
Why I Picked AWS Directory Service:
In my comparison of various directory services, I found AWS Directory Service to stand out, mainly due to its high level of compatibility with the AWS ecosystem. The smooth integration it provides for businesses already using AWS is a significant advantage. Therefore, I judge AWS Directory Service to be the best option for those using Amazon Web Services.
Standout Features & Integrations:
AWS Directory Service stands out with its AWS Managed Microsoft AD, which lets you use existing corporate identities to access AWS resources. It also enables the use of familiar AD administrative tools. The service integrates well with other AWS services, including Amazon EC2, Amazon RDS, and AWS Enterprise IT applications.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Support for familiar AD administrative tools
- Allows usage of existing corporate identities to access AWS resources
- Smooth integration with AWS ecosystem
Cons:
- May require additional AWS knowledge for effective usage
- Less suitable for businesses not already using AWS
- Pricing can be complex due to the hourly billing structure
PingIdentity is a renowned provider of identity and access management solutions that caters to businesses of all sizes. It stands out for its ability to scale alongside businesses while maintaining a user-friendly approach to identity management.
Why I Picked PingIdentity:
I picked PingIdentity for its impeccable balance between scalability and user-friendliness. In the realm of cloud directory services, it's easy to sacrifice ease of use for scalability. But PingIdentity manages to offer both without compromise. For its ability to handle growth without overwhelming users, I recommend it as best for businesses that need scalable, user-friendly identity solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
PingIdentity provides a comprehensive set of features including SSO, MFA, and access security. It also offers an intuitive user interface that makes identity management a breeze. As for integrations, PingIdentity supports an array of applications and platforms, from web and mobile apps to APIs and microservices, ensuring flexibility for diverse IT environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide-ranging integrations
- Comprehensive security features
- Excellent balance of scalability and user-friendliness
Cons:
- Some features may require additional cost
- Occasional complexity in setup
- Customer support could be more responsive
Okta Workforce Identity Cloud is designed to provide automated and efficient management of employee identities from onboarding to offboarding. By streamlining the entire lifecycle of an employee's identity within the organization, it stands out for businesses that prioritize easy and efficient employee lifecycle management.
Why I Picked Okta Workforce Identity Cloud:
The decision to pick Okta Workforce Identity Cloud for this list came down to its effective handling of employee identity management. What sets it apart is its comprehensive, end-to-end approach to managing the entire lifecycle of an employee's identity within the organization.
I am convinced it is best for businesses that require efficient employee lifecycle management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Okta Workforce Identity Cloud offers automated lifecycle management, identity governance, and advanced server access. The ability to manage access based on roles, as well as the provision for automated de-provisioning, makes it a vital tool for organizations. It integrates well with a vast array of enterprise applications, including Salesforce, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust identity governance
- Wide range of integrations with enterprise applications
- Comprehensive lifecycle management features
Cons:
- Advanced features could come with additional costs
- Requires a minimum number of users (min 5 seats)
- Might be overly complex for small businesses
Okta Universal Directory stands as a premier solution for those requiring a centralized hub for managing users across their entire ecosystem. This service uniquely offers a single view of a user across all systems, making it ideal for comprehensive user management.
Why I Picked Okta Universal Directory:
I chose Okta Universal Directory for its holistic approach to user management. Many cloud directory services offer segmented views, but Okta stands apart with its single, centralized viewpoint. In my judgment, Okta Universal Directory is the best choice for businesses that require a comprehensive, centralized user management solution.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Okta Universal Directory's features include a unified view of all users, flexible user attributes, and comprehensive reporting. These qualities equip it with a robust capability to meet diverse user management needs. Regarding integrations, it boasts compatibility with a wide range of popular business apps and services, like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad range of integrations
- Flexible user attributes
- Centralized view of all users
Cons:
- Interface could be more intuitive for beginners
- Might be overkill for small businesses
- Pricing can scale quickly with advanced features
Other Cloud Directory Services
Below is a list of additional cloud directory services that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. But, they are still definitely worth checking out.
Related Software & Tool Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other types of tools that we've tested and evaluated.
- Network Monitoring Software
- Server Monitoring Software
- SD-Wan Solutions
- Infrastructure Monitoring Tools
- Packet Sniffer
- Application Monitoring Tools
Selection Criteria for Choosing the Best Cloud Directory Services
Cloud directory services offer a range of features designed to streamline access management, enhance security, and improve operational efficiency. I've personally tried and researched these tools to ensure they meet the demanding needs of today's IT environments. Here's an overview of my evaluation methodology:
Core cloud directory services offerings: 25% of total weighting score
To be considered for inclusion on my list of the best cloud directory services, the solution had to support common use cases. These include:
- Centralized user management
- Secure access control for applications and systems
- Efficient user onboarding and offboarding
- Compliance with security standards and regulations
- Support for hybrid and multi-cloud environments
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Advanced machine learning algorithms for predictive access and anomaly detection.
- Unique integrations with emerging technologies like IoT devices for secure access.
- Customizable dashboards and reporting tools for deeper insights into access patterns and security threats.
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- An intuitive interface that simplifies complex tasks.
- Clear, logical navigation paths that support efficient workflow.
- Role-based dashboards that provide relevant information at a glance.
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Comprehensive documentation and online resources.
- Interactive tutorials and product tours that facilitate a smooth introduction to the platform.
- Support for bulk user imports and integrations with HR systems for seamless user onboarding.
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- 24/7 access to knowledgeable support personnel.
- A variety of support channels, including chat, phone, and email.
- Proactive monitoring and alerts to prevent issues before they impact users.
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Transparent pricing models that align with the features and scalability offered.
- Flexible plans that cater to businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises.
- Consideration of long-term value through updates and continuous improvement.
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- High satisfaction scores that reflect the software's performance and reliability.
- Positive feedback on ease of use and customer support.
- Success stories and case studies that demonstrate real-world effectiveness and ROI.
Through this comprehensive evaluation framework, I aim to identify cloud directory services that not only meet the fundamental requirements for security and access management but also offer exceptional value, usability, and support to their users. This approach ensures that the selected solutions are well-suited to address the specific challenges and objectives of businesses seeking to manage their IT resources effectively.
Trends in Cloud Directory Services For 2024
As organizations increasingly migrate to cloud-based infrastructures, the need for robust, scalable, and secure access management solutions has never been more critical. Through a review of product updates, press releases, and release logs from leading tools, we can discern key trends in cloud directory services that reflect the changing dynamics of cloud infrastructure access management. Here's my overview of the current trends in 2024:
Trends in Cloud Directory Services
- Enhanced Security Features: There's a noticeable uptick in the deployment of advanced security features, such as adaptive multi-factor authentication (MFA) and machine learning-driven anomaly detection. These enhancements address the growing sophistication of cybersecurity threats and the need for more dynamic, context-aware security measures.
- Integration and Interoperability: The push towards greater integration and interoperability with other cloud services and legacy systems is evident. This trend is driven by the need to create seamless user experiences and simplify the management of diverse IT environments, indicating a move towards more flexible and adaptable access management solutions.
- Scalability and Cloud-Native Features: The emphasis on scalability and cloud-native architectures highlights the industry's response to the growing complexity and size of cloud environments. These features ensure that cloud directory services can efficiently manage access across extensive, distributed infrastructures, supporting organizational growth and cloud adoption strategies.
- Comprehensive Compliance Reporting: In response to tightening regulatory requirements, the development of comprehensive compliance reporting tools has become a top priority. These tools help organizations navigate the complex landscape of data protection and privacy laws, underscoring the critical role of cloud directory services in ensuring legal compliance.
Features Becoming Less Important
- Traditional Password-Based Authentication: The shift away from traditional password-based authentication towards more secure and user-friendly alternatives, such as biometrics and single sign-on (SSO), indicates a decrease in the importance of passwords. This transition reflects the industry's recognition of the limitations and security risks associated with password-based access controls.
By closely examining these trends, IT professionals can gain valuable insights into the future direction of cloud directory services and the evolving needs of cloud-based infrastructure management.
What Is a Cloud Directory Service?
Cloud directory services, also known as Directory-as-a-Service (DaaS), provide an essential platform for managing user access to IT resources, including systems, applications, files, and networks. Primarily used by IT administrators, these services streamline the process of connecting users to their IT resources, irrespective of their location, device, or the nature of the resource itself.
The goal is to enhance security, simplify identity management, and facilitate user access. From small startups to large corporations, businesses leverage cloud directory services to ensure secure, efficient operations in an increasingly digital and remote work environment.
Features of Cloud Directory Services
Here are the most important offerings to look for in cloud directory services:
- Single Sign-On (SSO): This feature allows users to access multiple applications with a single set of credentials. It significantly improves user experience by reducing password fatigue and simplifies the management of user access across various platforms.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to IT resources. This is crucial for preventing unauthorized access and safeguarding sensitive data.
- Unified Directory Services: This provides a centralized platform for managing access to all IT resources. It eliminates the need for multiple directories, streamlining administration and ensuring consistency in access control across the organization.
- Directory Integration: The ability to integrate with existing directories (like Active Directory or LDAP) ensures seamless synchronization and management of user accounts. This helps organizations leverage their existing infrastructure while transitioning to cloud-based services.
- Scalability: Cloud directory services must be able to scale with the growth of the organization. This ensures that as the number of users, devices, and applications increases, the directory service can handle the growth without performance degradation.
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): RBAC enables the assignment of access rights based on the roles within an organization. This simplifies the management of user permissions, ensuring that individuals only have access to the information and resources necessary for their roles.
- Self-Service Password Reset: This feature allows users to reset their passwords without IT intervention. It reduces the workload on IT departments and enhances user productivity by minimizing downtime.
- Audit and Reporting Capabilities: These features provide insights into user activities and access patterns. They are essential for compliance, security monitoring, and understanding how resources are used within the organization.
- Cloud-Native Architecture: A cloud-native directory service is designed to take full advantage of cloud computing frameworks. This ensures high availability, disaster recovery, and flexible deployment options, aligning with modern cloud strategies.
- API Access and Customization: The ability to customize and integrate the directory service with other applications via APIs is critical. It allows organizations to tailor the service to their specific needs and automate various processes, enhancing efficiency.
Cloud directory services not only streamline the process of managing user access to IT resources but also play a critical role in enhancing organizational security. By focusing on the features outlined above, organizations can ensure they have a robust foundation to support their evolving IT needs and protect their digital assets.
Benefits of Cloud Directory Services
Cloud directory services provide centralized management for user access to systems, applications, files, and networks, catering to the evolving needs of modern, cloud-based infrastructures. Below are five primary benefits of cloud directory services:
- Enhanced Security Protocols: By centralizing user access control, cloud directory services significantly reduce the risk of security breaches. They offer advanced security measures like multi-factor authentication and single sign-on, thereby bolstering the organization's defense against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
- Scalability and Flexibility: Cloud directory services offer unparalleled scalability, easily accommodating the growth of an organization. This flexibility allows businesses to add or remove users and manage access to resources efficiently, without the need for significant infrastructure changes.
- Cost Reduction and Efficiency: By eliminating the need for on-premises hardware and reducing IT administrative tasks, cloud directory services can significantly lower operational costs. They streamline access management processes, freeing up valuable IT resources and reducing overhead.
- Improved User Experience: With features like single sign-on and self-service password resets, these services offer a more streamlined and user-friendly access experience. This not only improves productivity but also reduces the workload on IT support teams by empowering users to manage their access.
- Compliance and Reporting: Cloud directory services simplify the compliance process with built-in reporting and audit tools. They make it easier for organizations to adhere to regulatory requirements by providing detailed logs and reports on user activity and access changes.
Cloud directory services improve operational efficiency and security, making them an essential component of any cloud-based strategy. As businesses continue to evolve and adopt cloud technologies, the importance of having a robust, scalable, and secure directory service becomes increasingly clear.
Costs & Pricing For Cloud Directory Services
Cloud directory services offer a range of plans tailored to meet different organizational needs, from small businesses seeking basic access management to large enterprises requiring advanced security features and scalability. The goal is to provide a secure, efficient, and flexible solution that grows with your business.
Plan Comparison Table for Cloud Directory Services
Below, I've outlined the common plan options and their pricing to help simplify your decision-making process.
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Basic user and group management, Single Sign-On (SSO) for a limited number of applications |
| Basic | $1-3/user/month | Full user and group management, SSO for all applications, basic MFA, basic reporting |
| Professional | $4-8/user/month | Advanced user and group management, advanced MFA options, audit logs, API access, custom integrations |
| Enterprise | $9-15/user/month | Premium support, unlimited SCIM provisioning, directory insights, identity governance, 24/7 support |
| Custom | Quote-based | Tailored features to meet specific organizational needs, personalized support options |
When considering cloud directory services, it's important to assess not only the current needs of your organization but also potential future requirements. Opt for a plan that offers the flexibility to scale and adapt to your evolving business landscape.
Cloud Directory Services Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions regarding cloud directory services!
Which are the cheapest and most expensive cloud directory services?
Are there any free cloud directory services?
What Do You Think?
The landscape of cloud directory services is vast and dynamic. As such, the insights provided here should serve as a practical guide to finding the right tool for your organization. The considerations about core functionality, key features, usability, and cost should empower you to make an informed decision.
However, given the continually evolving nature of this technology, there might be other impressive tools out there that haven't been mentioned in this article. So, if there are any cloud directory services you've found helpful and think should be on this list, please feel free to share them. Your experiences and suggestions are invaluable in making this resource as useful as possible for everyone.