What is a DNS server?

When you first start using a computer, be it in a library, at home or at work, there exists a bewildering array of acronyms, abbreviations and other jargon which can readily confuse you. What does ‘http’ mean for example and how does it differ from ’https’? This article looks at one such abbreviation - ‘DNS’. Find out what it means and how it relates to the internet and your use thereof.

What is my DNS?

Essentially, DNS stands for ‘Domain Name System’. This rather obscure sounding piece of jargon is simple enough to understand if it is broken down into its constituent parts. Firstly, a ‘domain name’. This phrase means a title or name of a website by which it can be identified by anyone clicking onto it. It is usually that which you will find in the top line of a web page and usually (but not always) follows ‘www’, signifying the ‘world wide web’. This domain name can also be broken down into parts. For example, ‘www.cam.ac.uk’ is the domain name for Cambridge University, the ‘cam’ signifying Cambridge, the ‘ac’ signifying that it is an academic institution and the ‘uk’ signifying the country of origin.

How does DNS work?

However, none of these DNS names exist in fresh air. Domain names are sited on web servers (DNS hosting), computers that contain and link various domain names by ‘translating’ them into a numerical code universally recognised by individual name servers within the Domain Name System. They must be so in order to be properly part of the internet. If you want to set up your own web page, you will need to find a server to host it. You can find the DNS server setting of your computer by typing this phrase into a search engine. A process called DNS Dynamic gives you the facility to access your domain name from different locations.

Do I have to stay with one DNS?

There are many different DNS name servers offering a variety of services at a range of prices. Free DNS does exist but if you are using a server for a commercial website, you will almost certainly have to pay. As in all matters, do your homework and discover what the options are when attempting DNS entry. You can obtain DNS info by visiting forums (look for DNS RFC or requests for comment) that discuss these various options and such unbiased testimony can be extremely valuable. It is possible to change DNS server or set up your own. Again, simply typing these phrases into a search engine will flash up a range of possibilities, so the moral is ‘Do not be intimidated by jargon!’ It's really simple.