DNS Checker
Check DNS records for any domain with our free DNS lookup tool
This tool uses Google's public DNS API to look up DNS records.
Results may vary depending on DNS propagation and caching.
DNS (Domain Name System) records are instructions that live in authoritative DNS servers and provide information about a domain. They act as a translator between domain names and IP addresses, allowing users to access websites using easy-to-remember domain names instead of numeric IP addresses.
Common DNS Record Types
A Records
Maps a domain name to an IPv4 address. This is the most fundamental type of DNS record and is used to point a domain to a web server.
AAAA Records
Similar to A records, but maps a domain name to an IPv6 address instead of an IPv4 address.
MX Records
Mail Exchange records specify the mail servers responsible for accepting email messages on behalf of a domain.
CNAME Records
Canonical Name records are used to alias one domain name to another, allowing multiple services to share a single IP address.
TXT Records
Text records store text information in the DNS. They're commonly used for domain verification, SPF records, and DKIM authentication.
NS Records
Name Server records identify the authoritative DNS servers for a domain, delegating a domain to a set of name servers.
Why Check DNS Records?
Checking DNS records can be useful for various reasons:
- Troubleshooting website or email delivery issues
- Verifying DNS configuration after making changes
- Setting up new services that require specific DNS records
- Investigating security concerns or suspicious activity
- Migrating websites or email services to new providers
How DNS Propagation Works
When you make changes to your DNS records, these changes don't take effect immediately worldwide. The process of updating DNS information across all DNS servers globally is called DNS propagation. This typically takes 24-48 hours, though some changes may be visible in just a few hours.
The propagation time depends on several factors:
- TTL (Time To Live) settings on your DNS records
- Your DNS provider's update frequency
- Local ISP caching policies
- Geographic location of users accessing your domain
What is a DNS record?
DNS (Domain Name System) records are instructions that live in authoritative DNS servers and provide information about a domain including what IP address is associated with that domain and how to handle requests for that domain. These records consist of a series of text files written in what is known as DNS syntax.
What are the different types of DNS records?
Common DNS record types include: A records (map domain names to IPv4 addresses), AAAA records (map domain names to IPv6 addresses), MX records (direct email to a mail server), CNAME records (alias one domain name to another), TXT records (store text information), and NS records (identify the authoritative name servers for a domain).
How do I check my domain's DNS records?
You can check your domain's DNS records using our free DNS Checker tool. Simply enter your domain name in the input field and click 'Check DNS'. The tool will display all available DNS records including A, AAAA, MX, CNAME, TXT, and NS records.
How long does it take for DNS changes to propagate?
DNS propagation typically takes 24-48 hours to complete worldwide, though some changes may be visible in just a few hours. The time depends on factors like TTL (Time To Live) settings, DNS provider, and local ISP caching.
What is the difference between an A record and a CNAME record?
An A record maps a domain directly to an IPv4 address, while a CNAME record creates an alias by pointing one domain name to another domain name. A records are used for direct IP mapping, while CNAME records are useful when you want multiple subdomains to point to the same destination.
Can DNS issues affect my website's availability?
Yes, DNS issues can directly impact your website's availability. If DNS records are misconfigured, deleted, or corrupted, users may be unable to reach your website even if your web server is functioning correctly. Common DNS-related problems include incorrect A records, missing name servers, or expired domain registrations.