What is DNS? What Does It Do? How to Change It?

Introduction

The Domain Name System (DNS) is a system that translates domain names into IP addresses on the internet. This conversion allows access to websites and other internet services. For example, a domain name like "example.com" is converted into an IP address by DNS, and your browser connects to this IP address to load the website. DNS is one of the fundamental components of the internet, and this article will detail what DNS is, what it does, and how it can be changed.

What is DNS?

DNS is a system that translates domain names into numerical IP addresses. This process ensures the accurate transmission of data over the internet. DNS finds the IP address associated with a domain name and directs traffic to that address.

Key Features:

• Domain Name Translation: DNS translates domain names into IP addresses.
• Hierarchical Structure: DNS operates with a hierarchical structure that extends from root DNS servers to subdomains.
• DNS Records: DNS contains various types of records, such as A records (IP addresses), MX records (email servers), and CNAME records (canonical names).

What Does DNS Do?

1. Website Access:

• Description: DNS translates a domain name into an IP address, allowing your web browser to access the correct website. For example, when you enter "example.com," DNS translates this name into an IP address and directs your browser to load the website.

2. Email Delivery:

• Description: DNS is also used in email delivery. MX (Mail Exchange) records direct emails to the appropriate email servers.

3. Redirection and Distribution:

• Description: DNS can direct multiple domain names to various IP addresses. This capability is used for load balancing and faster response times.

4. Security and Access Control:

• Description: DNS provides security protocols (such as DNSSEC) to ensure the accuracy and integrity of DNS queries. Additionally, network configurations can include access control and filtering.

How to Change DNS?

Changing DNS settings typically involves two main scenarios: modifying DNS records for a domain name and changing the DNS server on a device or network.

1. Changing Domain Name DNS Records:

• Step 1: Log in to the management panel of the domain registrar where your domain is registered.
• Step 2: Navigate to the DNS management section. Here, you can view existing DNS records.
• Step 3: Add new DNS records, edit existing records, or delete records. For example, update A records to change IP addresses.
• Step 4: Save your changes and wait for them to propagate to DNS servers worldwide.

2. Changing Device or Network DNS Server:

• Step 1: Access the network settings of your device or network router.
• Step 2: Find the section where DNS server addresses are specified.
• Step 3: Enter the new DNS server addresses. Typically, two DNS server addresses are provided (primary and secondary).
• Step 4: Save the settings and restart your device for the changes to take effect.

Conclusion

DNS is a critical system that translates domain names into IP addresses on the internet. It plays a vital role in accessing websites, email delivery, and more. Changing DNS settings may be necessary for various reasons, and correctly configuring DNS records and device settings can optimize your internet experience and provide a more reliable connection.