DNS, or Domain Name System, is the system that helps translate human-readable domain names into information that internet-connected devices can use.
Instead of remembering a numerical IP address, users can simply enter a domain such as:
yourbusiness.com
DNS helps determine where that domain should direct different types of traffic.
Why Is DNS Important?
DNS is essential for modern websites and online services.
It can help direct:
- Website traffic
- Subdomains
- Verification services
- Other internet-based applications
Without DNS, using websites and internet services by domain names would be far more difficult.
How Does DNS Work?
When someone enters a domain into a browser, the system checks DNS information to determine where the domain should point.
A simplified process is:
Visitor enters domain
↓
DNS lookup
↓
Relevant DNS records are identified
↓
Connection is made to the appropriate service
↓
Website or service responds
The actual DNS resolution process is more complex, but this simplified model explains the basic concept.
Common DNS Records
A Record
An A record points a hostname to an IPv4 address.
For example:
yourbusiness.com → 192.0.2.10
The IP address above is only an example.
AAAA Record
An AAAA record points a hostname to an IPv6 address.
CNAME Record
A CNAME creates an alias from one hostname to another hostname.
It is commonly used for subdomains and certain third-party services.
MX Record
An MX record specifies which mail servers should receive email for a domain.
If MX records are incorrectly configured, your business email may stop receiving messages.
TXT Record
A TXT record stores text information associated with a domain.
TXT records are commonly used for:
- Domain verification
- SPF
- DMARC
- Other service configurations
NS Record
An NS record identifies the nameservers responsible for DNS management for a domain.
DNS and Website Hosting
When you purchase web hosting, your domain needs to be configured to point to the appropriate hosting infrastructure.
This may be done through nameservers or specific DNS records.
If the DNS configuration is incorrect, visitors may be unable to reach your website.
DNS and Business Email
DNS is also essential for professional email.
Your domain's MX records determine where email should be delivered.
Other records such as SPF, DKIM and DMARC can help authenticate email and protect your domain against unauthorized use.
What Is DNS Propagation?
When DNS records or nameservers are changed, the updated information does not necessarily appear everywhere immediately.
Different networks and DNS resolvers may temporarily retain older information in their caches.
The process of updated DNS information becoming visible across networks is commonly referred to as DNS propagation.
Why Is My Website Not Working After a DNS Change?
Several issues can cause problems after changing DNS settings.
Possible causes include:
- Incorrect nameservers
- Incorrect A records
- Incorrect CNAME records
- Domain expiration
- Incorrect hosting IP address
- DNS propagation
- SSL configuration issues
- Incorrect DNS records
If you have recently changed your DNS, verify the configuration and allow appropriate time for changes to propagate.
Should I Change DNS Records Myself?
Experienced users can manage DNS records themselves, but DNS changes should be made carefully.
Incorrect DNS configuration can affect your:
- Website
- Business email
- Subdomains
- SSL
- Verification services
- Other applications
If you are unsure about a DNS record, contact The Kingsmen ICT Support Team before making the change.
Need Help With DNS?
The Kingsmen ICT | Tkchost provides domain registration, web hosting and related DNS management services for businesses and organizations.
If your website, domain or business email is experiencing a DNS-related problem, contact our support team with your domain name and a clear description of the issue.
Understand your DNS. Protect your domain. Keep your digital services connected.