Which component is primarily responsible for locating directory information across domains via a partial replica?

Which component is primarily responsible for locating directory information across domains via a partial replica?

• A. Domain Controller
• B. Site
• C. Global Catalog
• D. Organizational Unit

Answer: (C)

The Global Catalog is the component that enables locating directory information across domains using a partial replica. It holds a partial, read-only copy of every object in the forest (a subset of attributes), which lets queries across domains be answered quickly without contacting every domain controller. This shared index speeds cross-domain searches and supports forest-wide activities like universal group membership resolution. In contrast, a Domain Controller serves a single domain, a Site represents physical network topology for replication, and an Organizational Unit is just a container for organizing objects within a domain.

The Global Catalog is the component that enables locating directory information across domains using a partial replica. It holds a partial, read-only copy of every object in the forest (a subset of attributes), which lets queries across domains be answered quickly without contacting every domain controller. This shared index speeds cross-domain searches and supports forest-wide activities like universal group membership resolution. In contrast, a Domain Controller serves a single domain, a Site represents physical network topology for replication, and an Organizational Unit is just a container for organizing objects within a domain.