DNS is one of the most important systems on the internet. It acts as an address book for the web, allowing you to type in a web address, such as dotkeeper.com, instead of having to remember a long string of numbers (IP address).
In this article, we explain what DNS means, how a DNS service works, and how you can choose a fast and secure DNS server.
What is DNS?
DNS stands for Domain Name System and is used to translate domain names into IP addresses that computers use to find the right server on the internet.
How does DNS work?
When you enter a web address in your browser, the following happens:
1. Your computer sends a request to a DNS server, a server that stores and manages domain lookups temporarily (caches).
2. The DNS server searches for the correct IP address in its cache to connect to the right website.
3. If it cannot find the answer, the request is forwarded to another DNS server.
4. When the correct IP address is found, it is sent back to your browser, which loads the website.
This process happens at lightning speed and is absolutely crucial for the internet to function smoothly.
Why is DNS important?
DNS is a fundamental part of the internet’s infrastructure and enables a smooth and fast online experience. Without a stable DNS service, we would have to remember and type in long numerical IP addresses for every website we visit.
In addition, DNS plays a crucial role in security and availability. A robust DNS provider protects against cyber threats, and a fast and stable DNS server reduces loading times and improves the user experience. For businesses, a reliable DNS service is essential for maintaining operational reliability and business-critical services.
The structure of the DNS system
DNS functions as a hierarchical system with several levels:
- Root servers – these know where queries for TLDs should go and point to the correct TLD servers.
- TLD (Top-Level Domain) servers – Manage specific top-level domains.
- Authoritative servers – Responsible for individual domain names.
- Local DNS servers – The first server that the computer queries. These handle requests on an ongoing basis and store cache for faster access.
DNS, top-level domains, and domain names, how are they connected?
DNS, top-level domains, and domain names are closely linked and form the basis of how the internet works. Each domain name consists of several parts:
- Domain name: For example, dotkeeper.com.
- Second-level domain: The actual name of the website, for example, “dotkeeper” in dotkeeper.com.
- Top-level domain (TLD): The last part of a domain, such as .com, .se, or .org. Top-level domains can be generic (gTLDs) such as .com or country-specific (ccTLDs) such as .se for Sweden.
When you enter a web address in your browser, DNS uses a hierarchical system to translate the domain name into an IP address. First, it asks a root DNS server which top-level domain (e.g., .com or .se) manages the domain. The request is then forwarded to a TLD DNS server, which manages that specific top-level domain. Finally, the request reaches the authoritative DNS server for the domain, where the correct IP address is returned.
DNS thus enables efficient and structured management of domain names.
How to protect yourself against DNS attacks and other threats
DNS is one of the most vulnerable parts of the internet infrastructure and can be the target of several types of attacks:
- DNS spoofing and cache poisoning – Manipulates the DNS cache to redirect users to fake websites.
- DDoS attacks – Overloading DNS servers with traffic, which can make websites and services unavailable.
- DNS tunneling – Exploiting the DNS protocol to transfer malicious code or bypass security measures.
- DNS dangling – Occurs when DNS records point to a domain or resource that is no longer in use, but where the DNS record has not been updated or deleted. This creates a “dangling” pointer that attackers can exploit by registering the expired domain or creating a resource at the unclaimed destination.
To protect against these threats, there are several effective security solutions:
- DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) – Authenticates DNS data and prevents manipulation of DNS responses.
- DoH (DNS over HTTPS) and DoT (DNS over TLS) – Encrypts DNS traffic to protect integrity and prevent eavesdropping.
- DNS redundancy – Distributes traffic across multiple servers to reduce the risk of downtime.
Dotkeeper’s Premium DNS Service: World-class security and performance
Looking for a secure and fast DNS Service? Dotkeeper partners with NS1 (part of IBM) to deliver a Premium DNS service with 100% guaranteed uptime. Through a robust infrastructure with 26 global Points of Presence (PoPs) and the industry’s fastest DNS propagation time of 5 seconds, we ensure maximum performance and reliability.
Advantages of Dotkeeper’s DNS service:
- 100% uptime: Your domain is always available, without the risk of DNS-related downtime.
- Protection against DDoS attacks and DNS hijacking: Advanced security features prevent attacks and manipulation.
- Traffic Steering: Intelligent traffic steering features improve speed and stability by directing traffic based on geographic proximity and server load.
- Fastest DNS propagation in the industry: 5-second propagation time ensures fast updating of DNS changes.
- Independent and standalone solution: Dotkeeper’s DNS works without being tied to other third-party services.
Want to secure your domain with a reliable and secure DNS solution? Contact us!