DNS Lookup

What is DNS?

DNS (Domain Name System) is the phone book of the internet. It translates human-readable domain names (like example.com) into IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1) that computers use to connect. DNS records contain various types of information about domains, including IP addresses, mail servers, and text records.

Our free DNS Lookup tool helps you understand DNS record types and provides information about DNS queries. Note that browser JavaScript cannot directly query DNS servers due to security restrictions, so DNS lookups require server-side APIs or specialized tools.

Why Lookup DNS Records?

DNS lookups are useful for:

• Finding IP addresses for domains
• Checking mail server configuration (MX records)
• Verifying domain DNS settings
• Debugging DNS-related issues
• Checking SPF, DKIM records (TXT)
• Understanding domain configuration

DNS Record Types

• A Record: Maps domain to IPv4 address
• AAAA Record: Maps domain to IPv6 address
• MX Record: Specifies mail exchange servers
• TXT Record: Text records (SPF, DKIM, verification)
• CNAME Record: Creates domain aliases
• NS Record: Specifies name servers for domain

Common Use Cases

• Domain Configuration: Verify DNS settings
• Email Setup: Check MX records for mail servers
• Security: Verify SPF and DKIM records
• Debugging: Troubleshoot DNS issues
• Migration: Check DNS after domain migration

Best Practices

• Use Command Line: Use nslookup or dig for accurate results
• Check Multiple Records: Query different record types
• Verify Changes: Wait for DNS propagation after changes
• Use DNS Tools: Use specialized DNS lookup services

FAQs

Why can't I query DNS from the browser?

Browser JavaScript cannot directly query DNS servers due to security restrictions. Use server-side APIs, command-line tools, or DNS lookup services.

What is DNS propagation?

DNS propagation is the time it takes for DNS changes to spread across all DNS servers worldwide. This can take up to 48 hours.

How do I check DNS records?

Use command-line tools (nslookup, dig), DNS lookup services, or server-side DNS APIs to query DNS records.

What is an MX record?

An MX (Mail Exchange) record specifies which mail servers handle email for a domain.

What is a TXT record used for?

TXT records are used for various purposes including SPF (email authentication), DKIM, domain verification, and other text-based DNS data.