distinguished name
An identifier that uniquely represents an object in the X.500 Directory Information Tree (DIT) [X501]. (Compare: domain name, identity, naming authority.)
Senses
(N)
An identifier that uniquely represents an object in the X.500 Directory Information Tree (DIT) [X501]. (Compare: domain name, identity, naming authority.)
Tutorial: A DN is a set of attribute values that identify the path leading from the base of the DIT to the object that is named. An X.509 public-key certificate or CRL contains a DN that identifies its issuer, and an X.509 attribute certificate contains a DN or other form of name that identifies its subject.
References
- IETF RFC 4949 (Internet Security Glossary)Jan 06, 2026RFC 4949 — Internet Security Glossary (Version 2)https://www.rfc-editor.org/rfc/rfc4949.txtRFC 4949 is published by the IETF Trust and marked as "Distribution of this memo is unlimited". Verify IETF Trust copyright/licensing terms for reuse.Source: IETF RFC 4949 (rfc-editor.org).