1. A system for caching directory data in a networked computer environment comprising: a timer data storage, which timer data storage includes means adapted for storing data representative of a selected, periodic cache renewal period; means adapted for receiving temporal data representative of elapsed time; testing means adapted for testing the temporal data against the timer data, the testing means including means adapted for outputting a cache renewal signal in accordance with an outcome of the testing; a directory cache; a cache refresh means adapted for selectively retrieving selected directory data from a first selected directory into the directory cache; and means adapted for enabling the cache refresh means in accordance with the cache renewal signal.