Federated search allows a single search to be run simultaneously across multiple content stores. The results from each content store are aggregated and returned to the user.
The federated search provides centralized coordination of the searchable resources. This involves both coordination of the queries transmitted to the individual content stores and fusion of the search results returned. Mapping the results list into a common form is supported by applying ontologies to search results.
When federated search is performed against secure content sources, the users' credentials will be passed to each underlying search engine, so that appropriate security is maintained.