Category: DNS

If you have planned the website or managed a domain name, you must’ve come across the term DNS.

What is DNS?

The abbreviation of DNS is Domain Name Server. It is the important component that leads to the smooth working of internet functions.

Whether you’re a website owner, a web developer, or want to gain knowledge about DNS and its role in maintaining the well-connected digital world.

So, let’s swing deep into this fascinating realm in which domain names translate into IP addresses and unravel the framework that accesses the internet function.

What is DNS?

DNS stands for Domain Name System. It’s like the internet’s phonebook. When you type a website address (like [invalid URL removed]), DNS translates that human-readable name into a numerical IP address (like 142.250.205.142) that computers can understand.

Think of it this way: You know a friend’s phone number but don’t know their street address. DNS is the tool that helps you to find the address based on the phone number.

Key functions of DNS:

• Translation: DNS converts domain names into IP addresses.  
• Routing: It also directs traffic to the correct server.  
• Load balancing: It also distributes the traffic across multiple servers to improve performance.  

Without DNS, navigating the internet would be incredibly complex and time-consuming, as we’d have to remember long strings of numbers instead of easy-to-remember domain names.

Read: Exploring the World of Parked Domains

How DNS works?

1. User Types a Domain Name:

• Type your website address like “www.example.com” into your web browser.

2. Local DNS Server:

• Your computer first checks its local DNS cache (like a small phonebook) to see if it already knows the IP address associated with that domain name.  
• If found, the IP address is sent to your web browser, and the connection is established.  

3. Recursive Query to Root Server:

• If the local DNS server doesn’t have the IP address, it sends a recursive query to a root DNS server. Root servers are responsible for knowing the addresses of authoritative servers for top-level domains (TLDs) like .com, .org, .net, etc.  

4. Referral to TLD Server:

• The root server responds by providing the address of the authoritative DNS server for the .com TLD.  

5. Query to Authoritative Server:

• Your local DNS server then queries the authoritative DNS server for “example.com.” This server is responsible for knowing the IP address associated with that specific domain.  

6. IP Address Response:

• The authoritative server returns the IP address of “example.com” to your local DNS server.  

7. Cache and Connection:

• Your local DNS server caches the IP address for future reference and sends it to your web browser.  
• Your web browser then connects to the website using the IP address.

Types of DNS Services

1. Recursive DNS Servers

• Function: These servers act as intermediaries between your device and authoritative DNS servers. When you type a domain name, your device sends a query to a recursive DNS server. The recursive server then queries authoritative servers to find the corresponding IP address and returns it to your device.
• Examples: Most ISPs (Internet Service Providers) provide recursive DNS servers as part of their services. Public DNS servers like Google Public DNS and OpenDNS are also popular options.

2. Authoritative DNS Servers

• Function: These servers are responsible for storing and serving the IP addresses associated with specific domain names. They are typically managed by domain registrars or website hosting providers.
• Examples: If you have a domain registered with GoDaddy, their servers act as authoritative DNS servers for your domain.

Additional Types of DNS Services

• Dynamic DNS (DDNS): This service allows you to update the IP address associated with a domain name dynamically. It’s useful for devices with fluctuating IP addresses, such as home routers or webcams.
• Anycast DNS: This technique uses multiple servers located geographically close to each other to improve performance and reliability. When you query an anycast DNS server, your request is routed to the closest server.
• Enterprise DNS: This refers to DNS services specifically designed for large organizations with complex network infrastructures. Enterprise DNS solutions often include features like load balancing, DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions), and advanced monitoring.

Read: Protect Your WordPress Site from Brute Force Attacks: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the Right DNS Service:

The best DNS service for you depends on your specific needs. Consider factors such as:

• Reliability: Look for a service with a good track record of uptime and minimal downtime.
• Speed: A fast DNS service can improve website loading times.
• Security: DNSSEC helps to protect against DNS spoofing attacks.
• Features: If you need advanced features like load balancing or dynamic DNS, make sure the service offers them.
• Cost: DNS services can vary in price, so compare costs and features before making a decision.

By understanding the different types of DNS services and their functions, you can make an informed choice to optimize your internet experience.