If you’re going to create a website with its corresponding domain name and hosting, it’s essential to understand what DNS is, the different types available, and how it works. For this reason, this article will explain all of this and the importance of DNS in the world of web hosting.
What is DNS?
DNS, or Domain Name System, is fundamental to the internet. It acts as a distributed database that translates domain names into IP addresses.
There are three types of DNS servers: recursive, stub, and authoritative. There are also various DNS records, such as A and AAAA, which allow you to configure a domain.
Next, we will look at the different types of DNS records and their functions.
Types of DNS servers
In the world of technology and computing, there are different types of DNS servers that play specific roles in the domain name translation process. The three main types of DNS servers are described below:
Recursive DNS resolution server
The recursive DNS resolver is responsible for performing DNS queries as many times as necessary to obtain the answer to the original query. This server is responsible for searching and gathering information from authoritative DNS servers to resolve a domain name to an IP address used by machines.
DNS stub code resolver server
The DNS stub resolver is typically located on endpoint hosts and generates DNS queries when application programs need to resolve domain names. This server acts as an intermediary between the stub resolver on the host and the authoritative DNS servers, helping to translate domain names into IP addresses.
Authoritative DNS server
The authoritative DNS server is responsible for different parts of the DNS namespace. This type of server has the authority and information about the DNS records in a specific zone. When a DNS query is made, the authoritative server provides the answer if it has the requested information.
DNS Records and Their Functions
Record A (Address)
The A (Address) record is one of the most common types of DNS records. Its main function is to associate a domain name with an IPv4 address. When a DNS query is performed, the A record returns the IP address corresponding to the requested hostname. This allows users to access a website by entering its domain name in their browser. In this way, you can visit the website with that domain name, which will be hosted on one of the best hosting providers.
AAAA Registration
The AAAA record serves a similar function to the A record, but instead of associating a domain name with an IPv4 address, it associates it with an IPv6 address. With the growth of the internet and the adoption of IPv6, the AAAA record has become increasingly important. It allows users to access websites using IPv6 addresses, thus ensuring a secure and efficient connection.
Other DNS records
In addition to A and AAAA records, several other types of DNS records perform specific functions in domain configuration. Some of these records include:
- CAA (Certification Authority Authorization) Registration: This type of registration allows you to limit the valid certification authorities for a domain, providing greater control over the issuance of SSL certificates.
- CNAME (Canonical Name) Record: Used to create aliases for a domain name. It allows you to redirect one domain name to another, providing flexibility in managing online resources.
- MX (Mail Exchange) Record: Specifies the mail servers that should receive emails from the domain. Email needs to function correctly within a domain.
These are just a few examples of the different types of DNS records that exist. Each has a specific function and contributes to the proper configuration and operation of a domain. By using the correct combination of DNS records, you can ensure optimal performance of the online services associated with the domain.
Remember that correctly configuring DNS records is essential to ensure a domain functions properly and is accessible on the internet. Understanding the different types of records and their functions allows you to make informed decisions when configuring and managing a domain.