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What Is a DNS Record?
A domain name system (DNS) record is a database entry used to store information about a domain name and map it to an Internet Protocol Address (IP address). DNS records are stored on DNS servers and help users connect to websites by translating domain names into IP addresses.
When a domain name is entered into a web browser, a process called DNS lookup queries DNS servers to retrieve the IP address. The browser sends a request to the website using the corresponding IP address, allowing the web server to return the requested site.
The DNS system is often explained by describing it as a phonebook for the Internet. Instead of listing names and phone numbers it lists domain names and corresponding IP addresses. Without this system, users would need to remember complex numerical IP addresses instead of user-friendly domain names when visiting websites.
Key Takeaways
- DNS records store information about a domain name and maps it to an IP address.
- The DNS system is often described as a phonebook for the Internet.
- It may be stored as entries in text-based files, called “zone files,” written in DNS syntax.
- DNS queries are stored in DNS servers, also called authoritative nameservers.
- DNS infrastructure is vulnerable to cyberattacks, like DNS poisoning and hijacking.
How DNS Record Works
DNS records are stored in a DNS server’s database or as entries in text-based files, called “zone files,” containing all the necessary information of all resource records for the particular domain. These records are written in DNS syntax – a string of characters, or commands, that tell the DNS server how to handle a DNS query. The query is started when a user searches for a domain name or URL in a web browser.
DNS servers communicate and resolve the query, using the stored DNS records to connect the user with the correct IP address. If a DNS server gets a request for a name it doesn’t know, it will ask another server (which will ask another server, and so on) until it gets an answer. DNS servers typically cache their names to make this faster.
DNS Record Importance
DNS records are important because they contain information needed to manage a domain’s functionality, such as the IP address (A record), mail server settings (MX record), and other configurations.
But what is a DNS entry? It is the specific record stored in the DNS system that defines how a domain is connected to its IP address or other services. This domain infrastructure allows users to interact with websites using easy-to-remember domain names.
Computers use IP addresses to communicate with devices on a network, which are a string of numbers, like 172.64.149.240 (IPv4) or 2606:4700:4700::1111 (IPv6). This works well for computers but can be difficult for humans to use. Instead, the DNS system translates domain names like “Techopedia.com” or “Google.com” into the corresponding IP addresses, making it easier to navigate.
DNS Record Types
DNS record types contain important information about a domain. They are entries that tell DNS servers how to handle queries.
DNS record types include:
DNS Records and Cybersecurity
DNS infrastructure is essential for Internet functionality which makes it a target for cyberattacks, including DNS poisoning, spoofing, and hijacking. DNS records can be exploited by cybercriminals to hide malicious commands or redirect users to harmful sites.
DNS security methods typically include security protocols like DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) to secure data and provide cryptographic authentication and DNS firewalls to block unauthorized traffic.
TXT records also support email verification protocols like the Sender Policy Framework (SPF) and DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM), helping to prevent phishing and email spoofing. Additionally, antivirus software helps detect and prevent threats targeting DNS vulnerabilities.
DNS Record Pros and Cons
Pros
- Access websites using domain names
- Efficiently routes traffic to websites and mail servers
- TXT records support security protocols (e.g., SPF, DKIM)
- Works universally across operating systems (OSs) and devices
Cons
- DNS records need regular updates
- Misconfigurations can cause service outages
- Typically requires technical knowledge to setup and manage
- Vulnerable to cyberattacks, like DNS poisoning and DNS hijacking
The Bottom Line
The DNS Record definition refers to database entries that store information about a domain name and map it to an IP address. This allows access to websites using user-friendly domain names instead of numerical IP addresses.
DNS records are essential for connecting browsers to the correct servers via DNS lookup. They also support security protocols like SPF and DKIM. However, DNS infrastructure is vulnerable to attacks like DNS poisoning and hijacking, making protocols like DNSSEC and DNS firewalls an important part of overall DNS security.
