Today, we’ll look at the most important and fundamental DNS record types that everyone in this field should be aware of. To begin, DNS records are text files containing computer instructions. Furthermore, DNS servers store DNS records, which we use to connect websites to the outside world. So, let us now look at the most important ones.
The most common types of DNS records
A record
The A record, commonly known as an address record, comes first on our list. It is unquestionably the most popular form of DNS record. We utilize an A record to point a hostname to its IP address. We’re referring to IPv4 addresses (32-bit) when we discuss it. Also, a more recent AAAA record type uses IPv6 addresses (128-bit).
As a result, the A record for your website will include the host’s domain name (example.com), IPv4 address, type (A), and TTL (time to live). It is the DNS record that is used the most.
NS record
The NS record represents yet another crucial DNS entry. The NS stands for nameserver. Furthermore, it functions as the nameserver’s ID card. And it specifies which NS server manages the DNS zone. Without it, the zone will be ineffective.
You must include the host in the NS record, just like in the A record. This time, though, you will direct it to the nameserver.
PTR record
The polar opposite of an A Record is a PTR Record. A Record maps a fully qualified domain name to an IP address, whereas a PTR Record does the inverse. It checks whether the server name is correctly associated with the IP address.
You must set up PTR records before using email servers. This will assist you with anti-spam, eliminating the problem with email delivery brought on by PTR record issues, logging, and a host of other things.
CNAME record
An informational component of a domain name system is a CNAME record. For example, the www prefix is often a CNAME record pointing directly at the agiletech.ie domain, if you have ever visited a website with the www.agiletech.ie prefix. One hostname is mapped to another domain using CNAME records, giving the second domain an alias. CNAME records are crucial as a result.
DMARC record
A DNS DMARC record (also known as Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) is a type of email authentication that identifies and verifies the sender of an email message. Using a publishable DMARC record within a domain’s DNS, the domain owner can specify directives on how email providers should handle any emails received from that domain. This can help prevent email spoofing and phishing vulnerabilities. Email providers can use the DMARC record to ensure that any email from the specified field is indeed from the legitimate sender. Utilizing DNS DMARC records is a great way to secure and protect domains from malicious activities.
SPF record
TXT is one of the DNS resource records. It is mostly used to indicate facts about the area and give outside sources information. To authenticate emails, you must have it. For instance, a server sends an email to your internet service provider (ISP). The ISP can use an SPF record or dedicated TXT type record to authenticate the email. This record includes information on the trusted servers approved by your domain so that your ISP can determine the origin of an email and spot a forgery. SPF, or Sender Policy Framework, is the most common (but not the only) email authentication method.
SPF record generator – What is it?
Conclusion
Felicitations! You are now familiar with the fundamental DNS record types. Knowing them is vital if you want your Domain Name System to work properly. So, the best is yet to come.
