Knowledge Base
Understanding DNS and How It Works
DNS Explained Simply
DNS (Domain Name System) translates domain names into IP addresses.
How DNS Works
- You type yoursite.com in browser
- Browser asks DNS "What's the IP for yoursite.com?"
- DNS responds with 123.45.67.89
- Browser connects to that IP address
- Website loads
DNS Record Types
| Type | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A | Points domain to IPv4 | @ → 123.45.67.89 |
| AAAA | Points domain to IPv6 | @ → 2001:db8::1 |
| CNAME | Alias to another domain | www → example.com |
| MX | Mail server | @ → mail.example.com |
| TXT | Text data (SPF, verification) | v=spf1... |
| NS | Nameservers | ns1.example.com |
TTL (Time To Live)
TTL tells DNS servers how long to cache a record:
- Low TTL (300-900): Changes propagate faster
- High TTL (3600+): Better performance, slower changes
Common DNS Tasks
- Point domain to hosting (A record)
- Set up email (MX records)
- Verify domain ownership (TXT)
- Create subdomains (A or CNAME)