DNS Record Types

Understanding the main types of DNS Record types

DNS records are the instructions stored in your domain’s DNS settings that guide how your domain interacts with the internet. Each type of DNS record serves a unique purpose, ensuring your website, email, and other services function correctly.

A Record (Address Record)

An A record maps your domain or subdomain to an IPv4 address. It’s one of the most basic DNS records and is used to direct visitors to the correct server hosting your website or application. For example, if your website is hosted at the IP 192.0.2.1, the A record ensures that example.com points to that server.

AAAA Record (IPv6 Address Record)

Similar to the A record, the AAAA record maps your domain to an IPv6 address. As more devices and networks adopt IPv6, AAAA records are essential for ensuring your website remains accessible to all users.

CNAME Record (Canonical Name Record)

A CNAME record is used to alias one domain or subdomain to another. It’s commonly used for subdomains like www.example.com or blog.example.com to redirect them to a primary domain, such as example.com. This helps ensure consistent behavior across multiple domains or subdomains without needing to manage separate A records.

MX Record (Mail Exchange Record)

MX records specify the mail servers responsible for handling email for your domain. These records direct emails sent to your domain to the appropriate server. For example, if you use Gmail for your domain’s email, your MX records will point to Google’s mail servers. Properly configured MX records ensure reliable email delivery.

TXT Record (Text Record)

A TXT record stores text-based information in your DNS settings. It’s often used for domain verification by services like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 and for email authentication protocols like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC. These records help prevent email spoofing and enhance domain security.