Understanding DNS Records
Author: Zayan Ahmed | Estimated Reading time: 4 mins
What is DNS?
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It works like a phonebook for the internet. Instead of
remembering long numbers (IP addresses), DNS helps us use easy names like google.com
to visit websites.
What Are DNS Records?
DNS records are instructions that tell the internet how to handle a domain name. They
connect domain names to the right servers so websites, emails, and other services work
correctly.
Common Types of DNS Records
1. A Record (Address Record)
● This record links a domain to an IP address (IPv4).
● Example:
example.com → 192.168.1.1
● How It Fits In: When you type example.com in a browser, the A record helps your
device find the website by pointing to the right IP.
2. AAAA Record (IPv6 Address Record)
● Like an A record, but for IPv6 addresses.
● Example:
example.com → 2001:db8::ff00:42:8329
● How It Fits In: This helps when websites use newer IPv6 technology instead of IPv4.
3. CNAME Record (Canonical Name Record)
● This record redirects one domain name to another.
● Example:
www.example.com → example.com
● How It Fits In: If someone types www.example.com, the CNAME sends them to
example.com, so you don’t need separate settings for both.
4. MX Record (Mail Exchange Record)
● This record tells email services where to send emails.
● Example:
example.com → mail.example.com (priority 10)
● How It Fits In: When someone sends an email to [email protected], the MX
record helps route it to the right mail server.
5. TXT Record (Text Record)
● Holds text information, often for security.
● Example:
example.com → "v=spf1 include:_spf.google.com ~all"
● How It Fits In: Used for verifying domain ownership and stopping email spam.
6. NS Record (Name Server Record)
● Lists the servers responsible for a domain.
● Example:
example.com → ns1.dnsprovider.com, ns2.dnsprovider.com
● How It Fits In: These servers store and manage all other DNS records for the
domain.
7. PTR Record (Pointer Record)
● Used for reverse lookups (IP to domain name).
● Example:
192.168.1.1 → example.com
● How It Fits In: Helpful for email servers to confirm that an IP is trustworthy.
8. SRV Record (Service Record)
● Directs services like VoIP or messaging.
● Example:
_sip._tcp.example.com → sipserver.example.com
● How It Fits In: Helps devices find the correct servers for certain applications.
9. CAA Record (Certification Authority Authorization Record)
● Limits which companies can issue SSL certificates for a domain.
● Example:
example.com → 0 issue "letsencrypt.org"
● How It Fits In: Prevents unauthorized companies from creating fake security
certificates.
Why Are DNS Records Important?
● They make the internet easier by linking names to numbers.
● They help with emails by directing messages to the right place.
● They improve security by controlling who can manage a domain.
● They support different services like websites, VoIP, and authentication.
Final Thoughts
DNS records are like signposts on the internet. They guide computers, websites, and emails
to their correct destinations. Understanding them can help troubleshoot website issues, set
up emails, and improve security. Even though they seem technical, they are just simple rules
that help the internet work smoothly!
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