DNS stands for Domain Name System. It’s the technology that connects your domain name (like yourbusiness.com) to the server where your website lives. Without DNS, your domain name wouldn’t know where to send visitors.
Think of DNS as the internet’s phone book. Instead of looking up a person’s name to find their phone number, DNS looks up your domain name to find your website’s server address.
How DNS Works
When someone types your domain name into their browser:
- The browser asks DNS where your website is located
- DNS returns the server’s IP address
- The browser connects to your hosting server
- Your website loads for the visitor
This process happens in milliseconds.
Common DNS Records
DNS uses different types of records to route traffic correctly:
- A Record: Points your domain to your website’s server
- CNAME: Points one domain or subdomain to another
- MX Record: Routes email to your mail server
- TXT Record: Used for verification and security (Google, Microsoft, SPF, DKIM)
- NS Record: Shows which company controls your DNS
Why DNS Matters
DNS affects:
- Whether your website loads correctly
- Whether your business email works
- Whether your domain connects to the right services
- Your website’s reliability and uptime
Do You Need to Manage DNS?
Most small business owners only need to update DNS when:
- Launching a new website
- Switching hosting providers
- Setting up business email
- Verifying ownership with Google or Microsoft
Your web professional can handle DNS changes for you to avoid mistakes.
Related Digital Literacy Topics
Need Help Managing DNS?
DNS can be confusing, but you don’t have to handle it alone. I can help you set up DNS correctly so your website and email work reliably.
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