Automated provisioning service for a directory enabled network

An automated provisioning system incorporates a service which is adapted to manage information for directory enabled components in response to specific entity profiles. The profile may be a base profile which may define one or more services. The base profile may be amended by the addition of extension profiles which relate to additional services. In use each user is dynamically associated with infrastructure and applications via the selected profile. The system further comprises a facility to establish virtual private networks or undertake domain management tasks. An interface manager is provided which when accessed by user provisions the user using predetermined routines or stories (Figs 5-7). A trigger mechanism may be provided which can create, modify or delete data outside of the system. The system can also provide IP address allocation, configuration management and authentication services. The provisioning system is also scalable by the addition of components to provide a global infrastructure. Facilities for information reporting and a user help guide are also provided.