If it is to be a database server only, then you do not need Active
Directory. Users will not login to the server, but rather to the
database. The database client authentication process will give the users
all the access they need to that server. You won't even need to create
users in the server's local SAM, except for Administrator and those who
will need direct, physical access to the server, such as a DBA, backup
operator, etc.
-Barry. [Novell Support Connection SysOp]