Setting Up DNS Records

DNS (Domain Name System) records are the backbone of how your domain connects to websites, email services, and other online resources. This comprehensive guide explains each type of DNS record and how to configure them correctly for your domain.

What Are DNS Records?

DNS records are instructions stored on DNS servers that tell the internet where to direct traffic for your domain. Think of them as a phonebook that translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses and service configurations.

A Records (Address Records)

A records are the most fundamental DNS record type. They map your domain name directly to an IPv4 address, telling browsers which server hosts your website.

• check_circlePoints your domain (e.g., example.com) to a specific IP address
• check_circleUsed for the root domain and subdomains
• check_circleYou can have multiple A records for load balancing
• check_circleTTL (Time to Live) determines how long the record is cached

CNAME Records (Canonical Name)

CNAME records create an alias from one domain to another. They are commonly used for subdomains and pointing to third-party services.

• check_circleCreates an alias pointing to another domain name
• check_circleCommonly used for www subdomain (www.example.com -> example.com)
• check_circleUseful for third-party services like email marketing platforms
• check_circleCannot be used on the root domain (use A record instead)

MX Records (Mail Exchange)

MX records specify which mail servers handle email for your domain. Without properly configured MX records, you cannot receive emails at your domain.

• check_circleDirects email to your mail server or email provider
• check_circlePriority values determine which server receives mail first
• check_circleLower priority numbers have higher preference
• check_circleMultiple MX records provide backup mail servers

TXT Records (Text Records)

TXT records store text information for various purposes, most commonly for domain verification and email security.

• check_circleSPF records: Authorize which servers can send email for your domain
• check_circleDKIM records: Add digital signatures to verify email authenticity
• check_circleDMARC records: Define policies for handling failed email authentication
• check_circleDomain verification: Prove ownership to services like Google, Microsoft

Common DNS Configurations

Here are typical DNS setups for common website configurations:

1. 1

   Basic website: A record for @ (root) pointing to your server IP, CNAME for www pointing to @

2. 2

   With email: Add MX records pointing to your email provider, plus TXT records for SPF/DKIM

3. 3

   With subdomains: Add A or CNAME records for each subdomain (blog, shop, app)

4. 4

   Third-party services: Add CNAME or TXT records as specified by the service provider

Best Practices for DNS Management

• check_circleDocument all your DNS records and their purposes
• check_circleUse appropriate TTL values (lower for frequently changing records)
• check_circleTest changes in a staging environment when possible
• check_circleKeep backup copies of your DNS configuration
• check_circleMonitor DNS propagation using online tools

Need Help With DNS?

DNS configuration can be complex. If you need assistance setting up your DNS records, contact us via live chat, our contact form, or email at support@markforge.xyz.