This article will see the top 4 DNS record types that are really essential to understand. So, let’s start.
DNS record – what does it mean?
DNS records are text instructions that are stored in zone files and allow domain names to be resolved to IP addresses. They are light and easy to update (if necessary), and their weight varies depending on the query type. Because computers are not human, they rely on records to comprehend and decipher texts. That is, they turn the written file into machine-readable numbers.
SOA record
The first type of DNS record we will look at is the SOA (Start Of Authority) record with a primary purpose. This DNS record should be the first in every DNS zone, and it will not function without it. The SOA record identifies the origin of the authoritative DNS zone. Furthermore, it contains critical data for the specific DNS zone. The SOA record, for example, includes the information and contact information for the DNS administrator. It even includes parameters like the domain serial number. Therefore, it is critical to remember and understand that you should only have one SOA record for each DNS zone.
A record
The A record, generally known as the address record, is possibly the most prevalent of all DNS record types. Its goal is to connect a domain name to its IP address (IPv4 address). When a user requests a domain name, the A record must be exact in order to display the correct IP address.
Although it is a fairly basic DNS record, it is an essential aspect of the DNS configuration. This type of DNS record is necessary to resolve your domain name. Furthermore, your users will not be directed to the proper site.
PTR record
Another essential DNS record type is the PTR record. If you want to send emails to everyone without difficulty, you’ll need it. The PTR record, also known as a pointer record, serves the opposite role as the A record. It connects a domain name to an IP address. It also functions as a reverse DNS record. When you send an email, your recipient will want to double-check that it was sent from your domain name. As a result, the PTR record is necessary. If you mistake configuring the A record and the PTR record, your emails will most likely end up in your recipients’ spam folders.
You can implement the PTR record with IPv4 addresses – A records or IPv6 addresses – AAAA records.
MX Record
The last crucial DNS record type from our list is the Mail Exchanger record, more commonly known as the MX record. It aims to identify the email server accepting emails for that domain name. The MX record must point to the hostname of the incoming mail server, which is critical. As a result, please make sure that you are not mistaking it for the IP address. If you don’t have an MX record, you won’t receive emails.
Bonus: NS Record
NS records, or Name Server records, play a crucial role in the Domain Name System (DNS) by directing internet traffic to the correct DNS servers for a domain. These records are essential in DNS delegation, where they enable the transfer of control for specific domains or subdomains to other DNS servers. Accurate configuration of NS records is vital for the seamless operation of the DNS, ensuring that queries are properly routed to their intended destinations and maintaining the integrity and accessibility of websites.
Conclusion
These are some of the most important types of DNS records – SOA, A, PTR, and MX records. You can now safely say that you are familiar with them. And what is the next step? To put them into action.