Class store schema

Abstract

A schema that facilitates the centralized management and deployment of applications, components and services across a computer network. Centralized class stores are provided under policies associated with a directory container such as a site, domain or organizational unit. Class stores include definition, state and location information for applications and components, such that applications and components are centrally available as needed. For example, via the class store, updates to components or applications for users under an organizational unit are performed once in a centralized location, whereby users or machines may automatically obtain new versions of applications as they become available, or software implementations as needed from a centralized repository. Class stores may be configured to contain packages of component and application information according to functional areas, level of security access, or other criteria as determined by an administrator. Component categories (e.g., spreadsheet, word processor, and so on) may also be maintained, whereby a suitable application may be located by its function. For customized administration and programmatic query or installation of specific components and packages, the class store also includes a manager object that offers a set of interfaces and APIs.