Technology · Web technology

Understand domains and DNS

See how a domain name reaches a website or email service.

1. The domain is the human-readable name; DNS publishes records that tell software where services are located.
2. Nameservers identify who manages the DNS zone, while A, AAAA and CNAME records usually direct web traffic.
3. MX records direct email. TXT records commonly verify ownership and publish email-security policies.
4. After changing a record, allow cached values to expire and verify the result from more than one network.

Follow the official instructions for your device or service. Back up important data before changing settings or attempting repairs.