Read our comprehensive review of GALtoDB Enterprise Edition, a Windows service for exporting and synchronizing Microsoft Exchange Global Address List data. Discover its features for IT professionals.
Introduction: Taming the Global Address List
For any organization using Microsoft Exchange, the Global Address List (GAL) is an essential tool. It provides a central directory of all users, contacts, and resources within the company. However, accessing and using this data outside of Exchange can be a significant challenge. GALtoDB Enterprise Edition is a specialized Windows service designed to solve this problem by exporting GAL data for use in other systems. This review explores its features, capabilities, and who it’s best suited for.
What is GALtoDB Enterprise Edition?
GALtoDB Enterprise Edition (GALtoDB-EE) is a Windows service utility developed to export data from a Microsoft Exchange Global Address List. Its primary function is to make this directory information accessible for integration with other systems, such as mobile devices, web applications, and third-party databases. Unlike other GAL export tools, GALtoDB-EE exports a per-entry unique key from Microsoft Exchange, allowing you to uniquely identify users within an Exchange installation.
The software is designed for enterprise-level use, making it a tool for system administrators and IT professionals. It includes a service configuration wizard to help get the system running quickly via a simple GUI.
Key Features and Capabilities
Data Export and Unique Identification
The core feature of GALtoDB-EE is its ability to export GAL data to a database.
- Unique Key Export: A standout feature is its ability to export a per-entry unique key from Microsoft Exchange. This is crucial for accurately identifying and managing users across different systems.
- Unlimited Contacts: The Enterprise Edition can export an unlimited number of Global Address List contacts.
Public Folder Contact Synchronization
The software can create and synchronize Public Folder Contacts.
- One-Click Creation: With the check of a box, GALtoDB-EE can create Public Folder Contacts based on information in your Global Address List.
- Easy Synchronization: It can then synchronize these public folder contacts, making it easy to integrate your GAL with mobile phones using third-party synchronization products.
Web Module Integration
GALtoDB-EE includes a GALtoDB Web Module.
- Customizable Web Pages: The module provides fast, customizable Web pages that query your GALtoDB database.
- Web Access: This allows you to make your Global Address List available on the Web.
Who Is GALtoDB Enterprise Edition For?
- IT Administrators: For managing and integrating Exchange data with other systems.
- System Integrators: For building solutions that require GAL data.
- Enterprises: For organizations that need to make their GAL accessible across different platforms.
Important Considerations
Niche Tool
This is a specialized tool for a specific task. It is not a general-purpose application and is only useful for organizations using Microsoft Exchange.
Age of the Software
The software is from 2015. It may not be compatible with the latest versions of Microsoft Exchange or Windows Server. Its functionality with current systems is unverified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is GALtoDB Enterprise Edition used for?
It is used to export data from a Microsoft Exchange Global Address List to a database for use in other systems.
2. What is the unique key feature?
GALtoDB-EE exports a per-entry unique key from Microsoft Exchange, allowing you to uniquely identify users.
3. Can it create Public Folder Contacts?
Yes, it can create and synchronize Public Folder Contacts based on your Global Address List.
4. Does it include a web interface?
Yes, it includes the GALtoDB Web Module for creating customizable web pages that query the exported database.
5. Is this tool still relevant?
The software is from 2015 and may not be compatible with modern versions of Exchange or Windows. Its use is likely limited to legacy systems.
Conclusion: A Specialized Tool for Legacy Exchange Systems
GALtoDB Enterprise Edition is a powerful and specialized tool for exporting and managing Microsoft Exchange Global Address List data. Its unique features, such as the per-entry unique key and public folder synchronization, make it a valuable asset for IT professionals in environments running older versions of Exchange. However, the software’s age is a significant limitation, and its relevance is likely confined to legacy systems. For organizations on modern platforms, a more current solution would be required.
