What is a DNS record?
DNS records serve as instructions housed within authoritative DNS servers, furnishing vital details about a domain, including its associated IP address and protocols for handling domain requests. These records are structured as text files using DNS syntax, a series of commands instructing DNS servers. Each DNS record is accompanied by a 'TTL' (Time-to-Live), dictating how frequently the DNS server should refresh the record.
Analogously, envision DNS records akin to a business listing on Yelp. Much like how a Yelp listing provides comprehensive details about a business, such as its location, operating hours, and services, DNS records furnish essential information for accessing a domain. Every domain necessitates fundamental DNS records for enabling users to access their websites via domain names, with optional records available to fulfill specific requirements.
You can check your DNS records via the following DNS checker.
What are the most common types of DNS record?
- A record - The record that holds the IP address of a domain.
- AAAA record - The record that contains the IPv6 address for a domain (as opposed to A records, which list the IPv4 address).
- CNAME record - Forwards one domain or subdomain to another domain, does not provide an IP address.
- MX record - Directs mail to an email server.
- TXT record - Lets an admin store text notes in the record. These records are often used for email security.
- DNS record - Stores the name server for a DNS entry.
- SOA record - Stores admin information about a domain.
- SRV record - Specifies a port for specific services.
- PTR record - Provides a domain name in reverse-lookups.