Apache Directory Server vs Sift

Apache Directory Server (ApacheDS) is an extensible directory server written in Java, certified LDAPv3 compatible by the Open Group. It supports LDAP, Kerberos 5, and the Change Password Protocol, and can also be embedded in Java applications. Server configuration uses LDIF files; pluggable components and subsystems let different backends be added to its partition nexus. For access control, ApacheDS adapts the X.500 basic access control scheme and uses X.500 subentries to control access to directory entries and attributes. Version 2.0 supports multi-master replication via RFC 4533 and is described as compatible with OpenLDAP. It also supports the LDAP Password Policy draft for enforcing stronger password rules. ApacheDS is free, with a free plan and no free trial, and is listed for Linux, macOS, Windows, and self-hosted use. The project says it is not production ready because of data corruption issues. It identifies testing, development, and education as suitable uses until the issue is fixed, and advises minimizing updates and keeping backups if it is used in production.

Sift helps organizations find colleagues, map reporting relationships, and understand how work is distributed. Its searchable people directory filters profile data by skills, roles, and other information. An automatically updated org chart uses company people data to show formal and informal reporting lines. Profiles can include skills, experience, projects, interests, pronouns, name pronunciation, and languages. Sift aggregates employee data from multiple systems into one profile, using prebuilt identity connectors and SFTP workflows. Listed integrations include Workday, UKG, Microsoft Entra ID, Google Workspace, Okta, Ping Identity, CSV files, Microsoft Teams, and Slack. Access is available in browsers, Windows and Mac desktop downloads, and iOS and Android apps, as well as through an API. Sift says customer data is encrypted at rest and in transit, segmented between customers, and regularly tested by third parties for penetration vulnerabilities. It also says it completed a SOC 2 Type 2 audit and is GDPR compliant. Plans start at $150 a month, billed annually, for 20 users; a 14-day trial provides access to Sift Complete. Sift does not offer native messaging or chat.