Definition:
DNS is short for the Domain Name System, an Internet service that translates domain names into IP addresses. Because domain names are alphabetical, they are easier to remember. Addresses on the internet, however, are actually based on IP addresses.
Índice de contenidos
What are DNS for?
Each time a domain name is used, a DNS service must translate the name into the corresponding IP address. For example, the domain name www.example.com could translate into numbers like 198.105.232.4.
The DNS system
This system is, in fact, its own network. If a DNS server does not know how to translate a particular domain name, it prompts another server, and so on, until the correct IP address is returned.
You can always overlook a search for this system by directly entering the figures, for example by typing 198.105.232.4 directly into the browser. However, it will probably be easier to memorize “example.com” when you want to return to the page later. In addition, the IP address of a website can change over time, and on some sites they often associate multiple IP addresses with a single domain name.
Choosing DNS
Usually, when a computer connects to the home network, to a Internet (ISP) or to a Wi-Fi network, the modem or router that assigns the network addresses of that computer also sends important network configuration information to the computer or mobile device. That configuration includes one or more DNS servers that the appliance must use for the translation of DNS names to the IP address.
It also serves as an abbreviation for digital nervous system, a term coined by Bill Gates to describe a network of personal computers.
Frequently asked questions about DNS
What is DNS?
DNS, or Domain Name System, is the system that translates domain names into IP addresses and other records needed for services such as web, email, or verification to work correctly.
What is DNS used for on a website?
It is used to point the domain to the correct server, configure subdomains, manage email, validate services, activate CDN, and establish security or authentication records such as SPF, DKIM, or DMARC.
How can DNS affect SEO?
DNS can affect SEO if there are outages, poor resolution, badly propagated changes, or configurations that prevent access to the website. Availability and resolution speed are part of the technical experience.
What should be taken care of when changing DNS?
TTL, record copies, propagation, previous tests, email records, CDN, redirects, and coordination with hosting should be taken care of. A poorly made DNS change can make the website or email inaccessible.