DNS Record
A DNS record is aplain text entry in azone file that contains important information about adomain, and is an important part of theDomain Name System. A domain's zone file contains multiple DNS records that help translate human-readabledomain names into machine-readableIP addresses, including a domain's name server and mail server information. A DNS record can also include domain aliases for forwarding domains and subdomains.
Each DNS record in a zone file contains a single piece of information, which work together to provide a full set of instructions for accessing that domain and its resources. There are multiple types of DNS record that each provide different information. Some of the most common types of DNS record are listed below.
- NS records list the domain'sname servers.
- A records list the domain'sIPv4 address.
- AAAA records list the domain'sIPv6 address.
- SOA (Start of Authority) records include authoritative information for a domain, including its primary name server and timers that instruct how often to refresh its DNS information.
- MX records listmail servers that handleemail sent to the domain.
- CNAME records create aliases (or canonical names) that forward requests to another domain or subdomain.
DNS records in a zone file typically follow the same pattern, starting with the domain orhostname, followed by a record type, and then listing details for that record type. Several examples are listed below.
example.com IN NS ns1.example.com
example.com IN A 192.168.0.1
example.com IN AAAA 2001:db8:85a3::8a2e:370:7334
example.com IN MX mail.example.com
app.example.com IN CNAME web.example.com
Test Your Knowledge
A global CDN serves data to users around the world using what type of caching?
DNS Record Images
The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary
The definition of DNS Record on this page is an original definition written by theTechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation bar directly below the definition.
Our goal to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for accuracy and simplicity with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, pleasecontact us.
TechTerms Newsletter
Improve your technical knowledge with our daily or weekly newsletter! Subscribe today and get new terms and quizzes delivered to your inbox.
Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter
Thank You
We just sent you an email to confirm your email address. Once you confirm your address, you will begin to receive the newsletter.
If you have any questions, pleasecontact us.