DNS records

When you create your own website, one of the first questions you need to learn and understand is related to domain DNS records. DNS (Domain Name System) is a system that translates human-readable domain names, such as «example.com», into IP addresses that computers can understand. These records define how your domain is displayed on the Internet and what services it uses. In this article, we will discuss the essence of DNS domain records, why they are needed, and how to properly configure your domain.

What Are DNS Domain Records, and Why Are They Needed?

DNS domain records are a set of configuration parameters that determine how your domain interacts with the Internet. The primary role of DNS records is to translate human-readable domain names (e.g., yourwebsite.com) into the IP address of the server hosting your website. This allows browsers and other programs to find and load your website.

DNS records are essential for several key reasons, including:

  • Domain Name Translation to IP Address. DNS allows you to use human-readable domain names by establishing a correspondence between them and server IP addresses.
  • Email. DNS domain records are also used for configuring email, such as creating your user’s email address and specifying which mail server to send emails to.
  • Protection Against Scammers. DNS can be configured to prevent unauthorized access to your domain and protect against scammers and malicious attacks.
  • Website Services. DNS records enable the configuration of various web services, including websites, blogs, online stores, and others associated with your domain.

Setting Up Your Domain: Tips for Beginners

Now that you understand what DNS domain records are and why they are needed, let’s explore how to properly configure your domain. Here are some important tips:

1. Choose a Reliable Domain Registrar

Start by selecting a specialized company through which you will register your domain. It is essential to choose a trustworthy and reputable provider that offers convenient tools for managing DNS records. For example, RX-NAME is a company with extensive experience in this field and can quickly assist you in selecting and registering your domain.

2. Configure DNS Records

After registering your domain, navigate to your registrar’s control panel and configure DNS records according to your needs. This typically includes creating A records (to specify your website’s IP address), MX records (for setting up mail services), and CNAME records (for creating aliases).

3. Double-Check Settings

After configuring DNS records, thoroughly review them to ensure they are correctly specified. Incorrect records can lead to website inaccessibility or email issues.

4. Document Information

Keep copies of your DNS record settings and other relevant data in a secure location. This will help you restore settings or make changes when needed.

5. Regularly Verify Settings

Finally, regularly check your DNS record settings, especially after changes to your requirements or when migrating to a different hosting provider. Correct DNS records ensure the proper functioning of your website and online services.

In conclusion, DNS domain records are a crucial element for the smooth operation of your website and online services. While configuring them may seem daunting for beginners, with the right guidance and attention to detail, it becomes much more manageable. Use a reliable domain registrar, set up DNS records correctly, and periodically verify them to ensure your domain operates reliably and without interruption.