Abstract: A method, system and product for resource constrained network elements to validate a set of records in a network repository by verifying validation information stored in the repository by a record validator. A record validator with adequate computational resources validates one or more set of records in a repository such a network directory, and stores validation information records in the repository. The resource-constrained network elements run simple checks to verify the validation information records thus stored. The validation information records may include the modification or creation time of validated records in the repository. The network elements compare the time stored in the validation information records to the actual modification or creation time of records to verify validity information. Cryptographic signature for enhanced security, and validation status records may be used to ensure fault-tolerant behavior.