DNS

Definition

DNS translates human-readable names into records that software can use. An address record can direct a hostname toward a web service; MX records direct email; TXT records often verify ownership or publish policy. Authoritative nameservers provide the final records for a domain's zone.

Why it matters

Changing DNS without inventorying every record can break the website, email, verification, or another service that appears unrelated.

Common misunderstanding

DNS is not hosting. It tells clients where to go; it does not contain the full website application.

Related terms

• Domain name
• Nameserver
• DNS record
• Hosting

Related system family: Hosting & Release

Sources

• RFC 1034: Domain names — concepts and facilities (opens in a new tab) · RFC Editor / IETF
• DNS concepts (opens in a new tab) · Cloudflare Developers