What are My DNS Records?

How does information move from one place to another over the internet? Well, there are countless techniques that work simultaneously. And in one of the fundamental techniques we know about DNS.

The Domain Name System is a vital part of this infrastructure. There are several entries in the DNS system that assist in controlling and steering the translation process.

In this knowledge base section, we'll look at the various sorts of DNS records and what they perform.

What Are DNS Records?

DNS records are just bits of information saved in a DNS zone file. These records include critical data for routing internet traffic. Each record has a specific function and is connected with a domain or subdomain.

Types of DNS Records

There are several types of DNS records. Scroll down to explore:

1. A Record (Address Record)

The A record is often known as the Address record. It is one of the most essential DNS entries. It converts a domain name into the IP address of the server that hosts it.

2. CNAME Record

The CNAME record is known as Canonical Name Record. It is used to create aliases for domain names. Instead of utilizing IP addresses, it connects one domain name to another. This is typically used to point many domain names to the same website. Using a CNAME record, you might refer to "www.example(dot)com" and "example(dot)com" on the same website.

3. MX Record

MX records specify which mail server gets emails on behalf of a domain. When you send an email, then directs the sender's mail server where to deliver the message. This record assists in routing emails to the appropriate mail server.

4. TXT Record (Text Record)

TXT records are used to store arbitrary text data in DNS records. They have various purposes. It includes such as verifying domain ownership for services like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, and implementing SPF (Sender Policy Framework) for email authentication. It provides human-readable information about a domain. In addition, TXT records can contain any text data, but they are commonly used for these specific purposes.

5. AAAA Record (IPv6 Address Record)

The AAAA record, like the A record. It connects a domain name to an IP address. However, the AAAA record is only used for IPv6 addresses. Further, they are longer and structured differently from IPv4 addresses. As IPv6 deployment increases–AAAA records become more critical for assuring connectivity over the newer protocol.

6. NS Record (Name Server)

NS records describe which name servers are authoritative for a certain domain. These name servers are in charge of keeping and providing DNS information for the domain. When a user requests a domain name, the DNS resolver first contacts the name servers mentioned in the NS records to obtain the required DNS information.

7. PTR Record (Pointer Record)

PTR records are used in reverse DNS lookups. This is because an IP address needs to be converted to a domain name. While A records map domain names to IP addresses. Whereas PTR records do the inverse by mapping IP addresses to domain names. In addition, PTR records are often used for troubleshooting and determining the validity of email senders.

Final Words

Understanding DNS records is critical for anybody operating a domain or dealing with internet technology. These records are critical in ensuring that internet traffic is properly routed and services operate as intended.

Now, you will be able to traverse the complexity of the internet's architecture and fix difficulties as they emerge. Understanding DNS records allows you to make educated decisions and have a pleasant online experience. For more knowledge, contact our team of experts.