Almost all those Internet users who know at least something about the domain name system are sure that DNS server and are designed to translate the alphabetic names of sites into IP addresses. Usually this is all they know about the DNS server. In this article, we will define this concept more specifically, take a deeper look at all its functions and answer main question: what is a DNS server.
DNS is the main component of the Internet
To begin with, let's clarify and analyze what DNS is. Everyone knows that modern computers work in the language of numbers, but almost all users use the language of words. Both the first and second type of language today find a place to be on the Internet. In this way, they provide a comfortable choice of navigation method for cars and people. Based on this, it becomes clear that each server corresponds to 2 names or addresses. Some of them are a domain name easily remembered by a person, such as apple.com, and some are a unique sequence digital characters for machine processing. This sequence is called an Internet Protocol address (IP address).
DNS stands for Domain Name System. This is a kind of database where all site names (domains) and IP addresses of specific top-level domains that correspond to them are stored, for example.RU or.ORG. This is essentially the DNS server itself. The domain name system is looking for computer systems and resources on the web. For example, if a person enters a web page address or a URL, the DNS system will check to see if that name matches the IP address of that site. If the check is successful, the system redirects the user to the site entered by him.
What is a DNS server
A DNS server is a system with a database that performs addressing on the Internet. Nowadays, almost every process of transferring information between devices that are connected to the World Wide Web (for example, computers, smartphones, bank payment terminals or vending machines) is dependent on the correct operation of the DNS. This system is processed by specialized servers that process names and translate them into numerical addresses in order to ensure that the data is transported to the destination. Such servers are now very reliable and rarely fail.
Every Internet resource (websites, e-mails, financial transactions, and others) depends on the proper functioning of this system that processes names. Without her The World Wide Web cannot exist. DNS servers are the most important and integral part of all the largest infrastructures in the world, the financial market, money transfers on the Internet and the simple exchange of information on the network. That's what a DNS server is.
Principle DNS work servers
The essence of the domain name space is represented in a tree structure, which consists of the domain names themselves, each located in its own zone. The top (or first) level zone is administered by the US Department of Commerce, as well as by Verisign and IANA. These organizations maintain the data provided to them by the root name servers.
The next zone is the DNS zone. The structure of this zone consists of nodes that are interconnected and serviced by one specific server. Each node (tree leaf) contains 0 or several resource records, which contain information about the domain name. Always at the end of any domain name, you must specify the top level domain, i.e. .COM, .ORG, etc.
After all, what is a DNS server? To ensure the correct functioning of the Internet and to avoid repetition of domain names, it is necessary that there be some one main resource, in which all domain names will be registered. Therefore, there is one home base data, where all data about domains and IP addresses is stored, from which information is distributed to the necessary zones.
DNS servers of recursive and non-recursive type
Server data exists both recursively and non-recursively. Their difference lies in the fact that servers with recursion will constantly give a response to the user, because they themselves track the sending to the DNS server and query them, however, non-recursive servers send data back to the user to query the specified server on their own.
Servers with recursion are often used on low-level system(on local area networks) because they add each intermediate response to the cache, and after the next access to it, the response will return much faster. While non-recursive servers are usually used at the highest levels of the tree, since the number of incoming requests is so large that there will not be enough memory to store responses in the cache.
DNS server vulnerabilities
When a domain name is converted to an IP address, this is known as DNS resolution. What is a DNS server, we have already described above, and now we will describe its main vulnerabilities. When a user enters a domain name in address bar, for example webmaster.ukatalog.ru, then the browser sends a request to main server with names to get the corresponding IP address.
There are two modifications of servers with names: these are "with authority", storing detailed information about the level, and "with recursion", responding to requests domain system names and at the same time save answers for some period of time. On recursive servers, responses are stored in a cache, and this can have a negative impact on security.
Often these problems arise due to cybercriminals:
The emergence of fake websites;
password theft and important information;
theft of credit card information;
theft of confidential information, etc.
Therefore, you need to be very careful with this type of DNS servers.
DNS server is extremely useful opportunity secure own computer from malicious sites. The process of working for beginners seems difficult, but in reality everything is much simpler, and the procedure for installing a dns server will not take much time.
DNS is an acronym derived from Domain Name System. WITH in English in Russian, this translates as "Domain Name System", which changes them into IP addresses. And the dns server stores the corresponding addresses in the database.
The work is carried out in this way: the browser, going to the site, accesses the DNS server to find out the desired address. The Server determines the site, sends a request to it, and sends the response back to the user.
How to know if DNS server is enabled on a computer
The current DNS server settings are defined as follows:
- "Control Panel" -> "Network and Internet" -> "View network status and tasks". Highlight your network connection, go to the General panel, then properties.
- Go to the properties of "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)".
- Open the General tab. If the option to use the following DNS server addresses is activated, it means that it is in working mode.
Repeat the previous steps, activate "Use DNS server". After that, you will need to specify the primary DNS server, and then the secondary.
How to set up/change DNS
When changing or additional setting you don't need to do a lot of things. You must use the window that was opened earlier, go to the "Advanced" item. Here, detailed adjustment of access to DNS servers is performed. In Windows 7, it's all possible to configure it yourself. Therefore, the question of how to change the dns server yourself will not cause problems.
DNS suffixes are also available for management. The average user does not need them. This setting, which helps to conveniently share resources, was created for providers.
On a wifi router
When using a router in the DNS options, you must set its IP address. To perform these manipulations, you will need enabled DNS relay and DHCP server.
The router interface is intended for testing and subsequent detailed settings. First you need to check the DNS in the WAN port. DNS relay is activated in the LAN port settings.
On the computer
Setting up a DNS server in Windows 10 is similar to a similar situation in early versions OS. First you need to select the properties of "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)". Go to advanced options and configure the list of servers.
Setting up a DNS server on a computer and on a laptop is the same.
On a tablet
Depending on the installed operating system, the actions are somewhat different, but they are all united by the following points:
- Open the "Wi-Fi" menu located in the "Settings".
- Go to the properties of the current Internet connection.
- Click "Change network", then - "Show advanced options".
- Scroll to the DNS servers item, then register them.
On a smartphone
Since now there is little difference between operating systems there is no phone and tablet, to configure the necessary dns servers, it is enough to know the instructions described above.
Possible errors and how to fix them
Problems with the Internet occur when the DNS server settings are incorrect, including when they fail unexpectedly.
What to do if the server is not responding or not found
Most often, this problem occurs when a server shutdown or lost settings. To do this, open the "Control Panel", go to "System and Security", then - "Administrative Tools". Click on "Services", find "DNS Client" and double click on it. The status bar shows the "Running" command. Otherwise, choose automatic type launch from the drop down list above.
If the service is running but the error still appears, there is a server problem. First, it is better to change the DNS server addresses according to the above instructions. However, it is still possible to reinstall the drivers network card, check your internet connection and check with your ISP about possible technical problems.
Doesn't resolve names correctly
With such an error, you need to check the correctness of the parameters of your DNS server. And it's better to just resort to changing the address of the dns server to get rid of the problem.
Also, problems are possible on the operator's servers, and the problem is solved in the same way - by changing the DNS.
For an inexperienced user, there is a list of quality and free servers:
Addresses: 8.8.8.8; 8.8.4.4
Like all Google services, performs its tasks qualitatively, but has a well-known disadvantage - it collects and stores user statistics. Despite this, the server does not have any access to personal data, so you should not worry about security.
If you want to learn more about server-work, there is official documentation on the information site.
OpenDNS
Addresses: 208.67.222.222; 208.67.220.220
A popular server due to the presence of a large range of filters and protection against identity theft. Basic features are free, but you can purchase premium access to create a "blocked network environment" and increase connection speed.
DNS.WATCH
Addresses: 84.200.69.80; 84.200.70.40
Does not require registration to use, provides a more serious level. The only negative is the low speed.
Norton ConnectSafe
Addresses: 199.85.126.10; 199.85.127.10
Also does not "asks" pre-registration, securely stores user data. Created by developers Norton antivirus without requiring additional advertising.
Level3 DNS
Addresses: 4.2.2.1; 4.2.2.2
Not only suitable for personal use but also corporate purposes. Fully free resource, ranks third in global popularity.
Comodo Secure DNS
Addresses: 8.26.56.26; 8.20.247.20
The basic version is free, but for some cash possible to purchase a large number of useful services. Both in paid and free options provides reliable protection data.
OpenNIC DNS
Addresses: you should go to the project website, it will select the best ones depending on the user's location.
Due to its huge coverage, it allows you to conveniently surf the Internet anywhere in the world.
DHCP server: what is it and what are its features
Most suitable for grids with a large number of computers, due to the transfer of its network settings to all connected devices.
This server allows the administrator to set a range of server hosts and avoid spending a lot of time on detailed optimization.
It only works with IP address settings and the addresses themselves.
Conclusion
The primary task of DNS servers is to transmit an IP address. Servers from other companies, some of which are described above, can speed up and greatly facilitate Internet surfing. At the same time, it does not need painstaking configuration, and many errors are solved using another server.
Many owners of home PCs, laptops and tablets use the Internet without understanding the principles of its functioning at all. You can get much more stable connection than the provider usually provides us, taking the time to study this issue. One of the possibilities to improve the comfort when using the network is to replace DNS addresses from the default to an alternative.
What is DNS and why is it needed
To begin with, let's figure out: what is the meaning of the letter combination DNS. The full name is Domain Name System, and translated into Russian means "domain name service". Each site on the Internet has its own domain name, we see it every day in the address bar of the browser. For example, for a well-known social Facebook networks it will look like this https://www.facebook.com. In addition, each site has its own IP address in the form of a numeric value, like this: 31.13.65.36.
DNS server translates the site's domain name into an IP address
The function of DNS is to store data about the addresses and domain names of sites. When a letter request for a site name is received, the DNS server returns numerical value resource address.
How to find out which DNS is provided by the ISP
If you periodically have difficulties accessing the Internet, it is better to use the installation specific address DNS, not automatic tuning. Such a connection works more stable. To do this, you need to find out the address of your provider. The easiest way is to call the operator of the organization that supplies you with the Internet service. If this is not possible, find out the DNS address using Windows tools. To do this, you need to call the command line.
You must do the following:
- Open the "Start" menu, then "All Programs", on the "Accessories" tab, click "command prompt".
Enter the "Start Menu" select " Command line»
- Alternative method: simultaneously press the combination Win keys and R - in the tab that appears, type the command "cmd" and click "OK"
On the Run tab, type "cmd" and click "OK"
- In the window that appears, type the command "nslookup" and press "Enter".
Type "nslookup" in Command Prompt and press "Enter"
- So you will get the value of the address DNS provider.
Your ISP's IP address will appear in the Command Prompt window.
Alternative DNS servers on the Internet, overview, pros and cons
Each ISP has its own DNS service, but sometimes it makes sense to connect to an alternative server. The reasons may be different:
- provider is unable to provide stable work DNS;
- the user seeks to increase the level of protection of his computer;
- PC owner wants to increase network speed;
- the desire to get rid of restrictions on access to information based on territorial position.
Consider best options and try to choose the most suitable one.
Google Public DNS
The service launched in December 2009 as an experimental service. IN this moment is the largest public DNS service in the world, handling over 70 billion queries per day on average. It uses the CDN (Content Distribution Network) method of information transfer. Google Servers Public DNS provides support for the Internet protocol IPv 6.
Video: A detailed and accessible description of installing an alternative DNS from Google
Its undeniable advantages are:
- High speed - ensured by using the latest technical developments.
- Reliability - obtained through the use powerful servers and extensive infrastructure.
- Security - based on the use of proprietary software.
The only negative associated with the activity of the service is the collection of data about users to earn money on advertising. This is not a serious breach of security, but potentially a disclosure of your personal information.
Open DNS
Open DNS is the largest, most trusted DNS service on the internet. It has 12 global data centers. It uses Anycast routing technology, thanks to which it responds to DNS requests faster than other providers. Websites will load faster and you won't have to worry about DNS outages depending on your ISP. Over 50 customizable filtering categories allow parents to control the websites their children visit. Open DNS blocks websites that try to steal your confidential information and passwords, pretending they are legitimate sites.
Video: How to set up Open DNS on your home computer
Its advantages:
- Quick response to requests thanks to the use of new technologies and an extensive network of servers.
- High degree of reliability achieved through the use of the latest equipment.
- The ability to stop an Internet attack before it happens - the service filters traffic, it has its own database of malicious sites.
- Basic features are provided free of charge.
- Setup takes literally minutes.
The disadvantage is the need to register on the service.
DNS WATCH
If you need complete privacy - DNS WATCH is for you. It does not require registration and provides additional protection. No one will be able to specify which websites you should not visit. By using DNS WATCH services, you no longer need to rely on your ISP when searching the Internet. You can be sure that none DNS queries are not censored. The service does not register Internet requests, you always remain anonymous user. The only drawback is the low speed.
DNS WATCH service page providing DNS services
Norton Connect Safe
Norton ConnectSafe will protect your computer from malicious and unwanted Internet resources. Does not require installation additional equipment and software. Enough to enter DNS IP addresses service. It is free for non-commercial use.
Video: set up protection for incoming Internet traffic, set up Norton ConnectSafe
Helps secure web browsing:
- As a product of Norton, a company specialized in software in the field of Internet security, will put a reliable barrier on the way of malicious, fraudulent sites.
- Blocks sites with explicit sexual content.
- It makes it possible to restrict children from viewing sites with questionable content.
Service is not a complete replacement antivirus program installed on the user's computer. Norton ConnectSafe is your first layer of protection.
Level 3 DNS
The service ranks third in popularity. In addition to DNS services, it offers a large number of other products. Constantly develops new services designed to help business. An advanced DNS provider with a flexible and reliable network of servers that responds quickly to customer needs. Uses a combination of public and private connectivity options via fiber or cloud. They are combined with Layer 3 security solutions, include necessary applications, DNS services and functions. Level 3 DNS allows you to create an ideal layer 3 hybrid network environment.
Description of Level 3 DNS Service Capabilities
It is necessary to take into account the fact that the service registers all requests coming from your computer.
Comodo Secure DNS
Comodo Secure DNS is a domain name resolution service that handles DNS requests through its network of redundant DNS servers. It will provide much more reliable connection than your ISP's servers. If you choose to use Comodo Secure DNS, network settings your PC will be changed so that all applications that access the Internet will use Comodo servers secure DNS.
Description of the features provided to users of Comodo Secure DNS
Comodo Secure DNS gives you a more secure, smarter and fast internet. He uses:
- reliable server infrastructure;
- high structured system DNS and Comodo help pages;
- domain name filtering functions;
- Secure DNS refers to a block list of dangerous sites.
Most of the additional features are provided for a fee.
Open NIC DNS
Non-commercial project, does not charge for access to DNS services. Completely run by volunteers, and free for users. No government can stop you from visiting your favorite sites. By starting to use OpenNIC DNS servers provided by volunteers, you can be sure that your connection will not be censored. The service has a huge network infrastructure, you can connect to the server closest to you. Simply select it from the list.
Description of the goals and policies of the Open NIC DNS service
DNS setup
After reviewing the capabilities of the services that provide their servers, choose the most suitable one, in your opinion. To configure an alternative DNS, use the table with IP addresses.
Table: IP addresses of alternative DNS servers
| Service | DNS 1 | DNS 2 |
| Google Public DNS | 8.8.8.8 | 8.8.4.4. |
| Open DNS | 208.67.222.222 | 208.67.220.220 |
| DNS WATCH | 82.200.69.80 | 84.200.70.40 |
| Norton Connect Safe | 199.85.126.10 | 199.85.127.10 |
| Level 3 DNS | 209.244.0.3 4.2.2.1 4.2.2.3 | 209.244.0.4 4.2.2.2 4.2.2.4 |
| Comodo Secure DNS | 8.26.56.26 | 8.20.247.20 |
| Open NIC DNS | Choose from the list https://servers.opennic.org | Choose from the list https://servers.opennic.org |
After selecting the appropriate service, you can begin to change the DNS settings:
- Hover your mouse over the "Network" icon and left-click.
The Network icon indicates the presence of an Internet connection
- In the "Current Connections" tab that appears, select "Network and Sharing Center" public access" and press left button mice.
Left click on "Network and Sharing Center"
- In the new window, select "Connect via local network».
On the "View Basic Network Status" tab, left-click on "Local Area Connection"
- will appear new inset, click Properties.
On the tab that appears, click "Properties"
- Select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP 4)", click the "Properties" button again.
Select "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP 4)" and click "Properties"
- In a new tab, under "Use following addresses DNS servers" fill in: "Preferred DNS server" and "Alternative DNS server".
Fill in the "Preferred DNS server" and "Alternative DNS server" items, click "OK"
- Check "Verify settings on exit".
- Click the "OK" button and restart your computer.
Common DNS Errors and How to Fix Them
There are several common DNS errors that users periodically encounter:
- The DNS server is not responding, the DNS address of the server cannot be found.
- Windows cannot contact the device or resource.
- No access to DNS server.
If an error occurs, first of all, you need to check if the Internet cable has fallen out of the computer. If everything is fine, try connecting it directly, bypassing the router. If everything works without a router, try rebooting it. There are many varieties of these devices, but in in general terms All settings are almost the same. How to do this, consider the example of one of the models of the well-known brand TP-Link:
- Enter 192.168.0.1 into the address bar of your browser and click search.
Enter the IP address of the router in the address bar of the browser
- In the window that appears, enter your username and password (the default is "admin", if the password has been changed, you must remember it).
Enter your username and password correctly
- Click the Login button.
- In the router control panel that appears, select " System tools».
In the menu that opens, select "System Tools"
- The following window will open, in it click the "Reboot" item.
In the "System Tools" section, click "Restart"
- In the next tab, the message “Press this button to reboot the device” will appear, press the button, confirm the reboot, wait.
After rebooting the router, the error should disappear. Elementary device failures happen quite often, do not rush to panic, any problem can be solved on your own.
Quite often the cause various errors DNS is a problem with your ISP's servers. If you have already taken the steps listed above, but the error message does not disappear - call your provider, the reason may lie in incorrect work its DNS server.
If the provider's equipment is working, the router is working, the network is available, and the browser continues to give an error, the following actions will help:
- ask your friends and download on removable media antivirus utility KVRT, scan your computer, remove malicious codes;
- set the DNS address, as described in the previous part of the article;
- update network card drivers.
How to determine the IP address of a website from a domain name
Sometimes there are situations in which it is necessary to find out the IP address of the site. There is nothing difficult in this. The simplest way is to install browser add-ons. Take as an example Mozilla browser Firefox.
Your course of action:
- Go to the browser settings, select the "add-ons" item.
In the extension installation window, click the Add to Firefox button
Shape icon the globe will appear in the search bar top panel browser. To determine the IP address of the desired site, just open its page. Hover your mouse over the icon and press the left button.
You will find out the IP address of the site by clicking on the IP finder icon
Another way to set the site address is using Windows tools:
Both methods are quite simple to perform, but in the second option, be careful - do not rush, enter the command and resource names correctly.
Comfort and convenience when using the Internet largely depends on you. With a minimum of effort, you will get rid of many problems and get the opportunity to reach a new, higher level of network surfing. Getting around the shortcomings that are common among the DNS servers of our providers is very easy. Switch to alternative DNCs.
When talking about securing your internet connection or accessing blocked content in your geographic area, you've probably heard of DNS. Despite the fact that all providers supply their own DNS server by default, you can use an alternative one. The DNS service is used to determine the IP addresses of sites by their domain. Everything is very simple - in fact, there are no literal addresses like a website on the Internet, all communications and messages between computers are carried out by IP address. Here is to define it by domain name and uses DNS servers that store huge table matching domain names and IP addresses.
Usage alternate DNS server provides several benefits:
- The closer you are to the DNS server, the faster name resolution will be.
- If the provider's DNS is not very reliable, alternative DNS will improve stability.
- You will get rid of restrictions on access to content based on geographic location.
If these reasons, or at least one of them, are of interest to you, it's time to set up a DNS server on your system. In this article, we will talk about how to set up a DNS server in Linux, how to find out its speed, and also consider best DNS servers. You can choose the best one according to your needs.
Since our site is still about Linux, let's look at how to configure Linux DNS servers. The DNS server settings on any Linux distribution are located in the /etc/resolv.conf file. The DNS server address is specified in the following format:
nameserver 192.168.137.1
Here 192.168.137.1 is the address of the DNS server. But the setting in this file will only work until a reboot, because this file is regenerated every time the system boots.
If you are using NetworkManager, you can set up a DNS server there in the connection properties. Open settings network connections, click in context menu ANDchange For desired connection, then on the IPv4 tab, specify the desired DNS server:
Now the settings are saved even after a reboot.
You can test the speed of the DNS server using the utility nslooockup. For example:
time nslookup www.google.com 208.67.222.222
Server: 208.67.222.222
Address: 208.67.222.222#53
Non-authoritative answer:
Name: www.google.com
Address: 173.194.113.209
Name: www.google.com
Address: 173.194.113.212
Name: www.google.com
Address: 173.194.113.210
Name: www.google.com
Address: 173.194.113.211
Name: www.google.com
Address: 173.194.113.208
real 0m0.073s
user 0m0.012s
sys 0m0.004s
The first parameter is the address of the site that we will measure, the second is the address of the DNS server. Team time measures execution time nslookup in milliseconds. And now let's go directly to the list of "good DNS servers".
Best DNS Servers
1. Google Public DNS
The first DNS server on our list is a server from Google - Google Public DNS. It has been running since December 2009 and its goal is to make the user experience on the Internet faster, safer and more convenient. It is currently the largest public DNS structure in the world. For Google usage Public DNS is sufficient to use the IP address of the DNS server 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4.
Switching to Google Public DNS improves security and optimizes speed as Google actually uses Anycast routing to find the nearest server. In addition, it is resistant to DNS Cache attacks as well as DoS.
2.OpenDNS
If you're looking for more than just a regular DNS replacement, but an enhanced version that gives you more control, try OpenDNS. As stated in the message of this company, you will take another step towards security by implementing this service. There are two variants of OpenDNS - home and corporate. home version comes with parental control, phishing protection and improved speed. The enterprise version of OpenDNS has full functionality to secure an enterprise network. For home use you can get OpenDNS for free. To set up Linux DNS servers, simply set the following DNS addresses: 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. OpenDNS also supports Anycast.
3.DNS.WATCH
DNS.WATCH is a minimalist DNS service that allows you to have fast access on the Internet without censorship. Since this service is built on the principles of freedom, you can be sure that your request will reach the target and no redirects will be used. The server is fast and stable. If you live in a censored country this will great solution. DNS service servers: 82.200.69.80 and 84.200.70.40.
4. Norton ConnectSafe
Norton ConnectSafe is another DNS service designed to enhanced protection your internet. It should be noted that Norton has been involved in the security aspects of many devices for a long time. So you can be confident in the quality of Norton ConnectSafe. The service offers three various options protection: protection against malware, phishing and scams, protection against pornography and other threats. Each species uses a different IP address. To protect all home network It's easy enough to set up the router.
5. Level3 DNS
Level3 DNS is a great DNS service if you are looking for a reliable DNS server with great performance. Although Level3 is not as big as Google, it has an impressive infrastructure. You can be sure that the speed will be on highest level. DNS server IP addresses: 209.244.0.3 , 209.244.0.4 , 4.2.2.1 , 4.2.2.2 , 4.2.2.3 and 4.2.2.4.
6. Comodo Secure DNS
Comodo Secure DNS is another service that combines speed, reliability and security. Comodo uses huge network, which includes a large number of DNS servers. The speed will be optimized by choosing a server based on your location. In addition, Comodo takes care of security by supplying a list of dangerous sites, and the DNS service will make sure you don't visit any of them. Comodo Secure DNS IP addresses: 8.26.56.26 and 8.20.247.20.
7. OpenNIC DNS
Although OpenNIC DNS is last on the list, it will be a great solution if you need Free access on the Internet without censorship imposed by the authorities. OpenNIC DNS has a very large network infrastructure and therefore will most likely find a DNS server close to your physical location. Just choose desired server from the list .
conclusions
As you can see, some of these servers provide regular DNS bypassing provider restrictions, while others have additional features- protection against attacks, phishing and dangerous programs. All of them are the best DNS servers and you can choose one of them depending on your needs.
What is DNS, how it works and how to specify or change DNS servers for a domain - 3.5 out of 5 based on 2 votes
DNS - (Domain Names System) Domain Name System - is a network service, whose servers match domain names with digital values their IP addresses.
Let's take a closer look at what DNS is, how it works and how it works.
The Internet is an IP network and each computer on this network has a specific personal number which is called the IP address. But since it is not convenient to use digital addressing, it was decided to use the alphabetic spelling of addresses. Therefore, when you go to any sites on the Internet, you do not enter numbers, but letters. But the problem is that computers can only perceive digital information, that is, a sequence of ones and zeros, and absolutely cannot understand alphabetic information.
That is why the Internet was created special service, which translates the lettering of addresses into numbers and is called this DNS (Domain Name System) service.
The DNS service is a huge database that contains information about the correspondence of a specific domain name to a specific IP address. Visually, it can be depicted as follows:
On the Internet is great amount domain names and there are more and more of them every day, so you can imagine how huge the database of this service is. It is not reasonable and practically impossible to store such a large amount of information on one server.
But since the Internet network consists of subnets, it was decided to split this database and place its certain size in each of the subnets. Where there are correspondences of IP addresses to domain names only for computers included in this subnet.
What is NS server
The server that contains all the information about the correspondence of domain names in a particular subnet is called the NS server, stands for Name Server or name server. Consider an example of converting a domain name to an IP address based on a simplified network.
As you can see, in this network there is a computer with the alfa domain with an IP address of 192.55.11.25 and a computer with beta domains with an IP address of 192.55.11.26, and the DNS server itself, which also has the corresponding IP address. Now suppose the beta computer needs to contact the alfa computer, but it doesn't know its IP address, only its domain name. However, it knows the IP address of the DNS server to which it accesses to find out the IP address of the alfa server. The NS server searches its database and finds the IP address that matches the alfa domain name and passes it on to the beta computer. The beta computer, having received an IP address, uses it to contact the beta computer.
As you know, all domain names have their own hierarchical structure and divided into domain zones.ru. com and others. See the material for more details. So, each domain zone has its own NS server containing information about the IP addresses of those domains that are included in a certain domain zone. Thus this huge base data is divided into smaller ones.
DNS setup
How can I change and specify DNS servers for a domain.
In order for your site to load when you enter your site address in the address bar of your browser, you need to associate the domain name of the site with the hosting. To do this, we must tell the DNS service which NS server to contact, so that it, in turn, looks in its database and tells which server (hosting) to contact the browser.
The DNS server entry looks like this:
ns1.yourhosting.ru
ns2.yourhosting.ru
You can find these addresses:
- in a letter that the hosting provider sends you immediately after ordering hosting;
- in the hosting control panel, for example, in the domains section;
- by contacting hosting support.
Now about where they need to be specified. These DNS server addresses must be specified to the domain that you are going to use as the address of your site. Therefore, go to the website of the domain name registrar where you registered your domain. In the domain management, find the item DNS servers or Manage DNS servers / Delegation, the name may differ depending on the registrar. For example, at the domain name registrar that I use to register my domains, you need to go to the "My Domains" section >> mark desired domain and from the drop-down list select "Change DNS servers".
After entering into this section a form will open in the fields of which you need to enter the appropriate DNS servers. To do this, in my case, you need to uncheck the box "Use registrar names" and then specify ns1.yourhosting.ru in the DNS1 field, and ns2.yourhosting.ru in the DNS2 field. IP addresses can be omitted, so some hosting providers do not issue them. After filling in the fields, click the "Edit" button.
After that, you need to wait a while until the DNS servers are matched. This may take from several hours to a whole day. Therefore, as soon as you specify them, your site will not load.
How to specify your DNS servers for a domain
Sometimes it is necessary to specify your own DNS servers, i.e. DNS servers that are located in the same domain. Almost everyone has their own DNS server service. In this case, for example, for this site, ns1..site is specified as the DNS server.
In doing so, the following points must be taken into account:
1. If you specify your DNS servers for a domain located in the RU, SU, RF zones, then you must specify its IP address for each DNS server. In this case, each specified IP address must differ by at least one digit; it is not allowed to indicate the same IP.
2. If the DNS servers that you specify for your domain name are in another domain, for example, if you specify DNS servers like 1ns.vash-sait.ru or 2ns.vash-sait.ru for the site domain, then you do not need to specify IP addresses .
3. If you specify your DNS servers for an international domain, then these DNS servers must be registered in advance in the international NSI Registry database. It is not possible to specify them without registration in this database. When registering with the NSI Registry, you will need to enter IP addresses for each DNS server. Therefore, when specifying DNS servers for the domain, there is no need to specify IP addresses.
Attaching an IP address to a domain
To attach an IP address to a domain, you need to go to the settings DNS records. How to do this will depend on the hosting control panel. For example, in ISPmanager you need to go to the "Domain names" section, then double-click on the required domain name and specify or edit the following three entries (to create an entry, click on the "Create" icon, to change, click on the required entry):
For the first entry, enter www in the "Name" field, select A (Internet v4 address) in the "Type" drop-down list, and enter the required IP address in the "Address" field.
For the second entry, enter @ (dog) in the "Name" field, select A (Internet v4 address) in the "Type" drop-down list, and enter the required IP address in the "Address" field.
For the third entry, enter * (asterisk) in the "Name" field, select A (Internet v4 address) in the "Type" drop-down list, and enter the desired IP address in the "Address" field.
Video: How DNS works
The material was prepared by the project:
