Abstract: Dividing a set of leaf objects having the same path of a directory namespace allows the divided path data sets to be distributed over separate physical stores (e.g., directory servers, network storage, separate memory, etc.). Distribution of divided path data sets over separate physical stores enhances scalability of a directory namespace and facilitates efficient utilization of resources. A directory distributor maintains information that indicates distribution of data path sets of a directory namespace and directs requests for the directory namespace to appropriate stores in accordance with this information.