A directed search uses information stored in the directory services database of a network node server to direct the search to the location of the requested LU. A directed search is sent to the node recorded as the owner of the requested LU to verify the information. A directed search can be sent to a network node server from an end node and to an end node from a network node server. A directed search can also be sent from a network node to a central directory server when the network node does not have information about the location of the destination logical unit or following a failed search.