What Is DNS?
DNS stands for Domain Name System.
DNS is often described as the phone book of the Internet.
When you type a domain name into your browser, DNS helps find the IP address connected to that domain.
Simple Example
You enter:
checknowip.comDNS helps your browser find the server IP address for that domain.
Then your browser connects to the server and loads the website.
Why DNS Is Important
Without DNS, people would need to remember IP addresses instead of website names.
DNS makes the Internet easier to use.
It is used for:
Websites
Email
APIs
Apps
Cloud services
Security verification
Common DNS Record Types
Record | Purpose |
|---|---|
A | Points a domain to an IPv4 address |
AAAA | Points a domain to an IPv6 address |
CNAME | Points one domain name to another |
MX | Used for email servers |
TXT | Used for verification and security |
NS | Shows the nameservers for a domain |
DNS and IP Addresses
A domain name is easy for humans to remember.
An IP address is what computers use to connect.
DNS connects these two together.