DNS is a fundamental part of the internet - an invisible force that ensures we can surf, email and use apps effortlessly. Yet many people don't know exactly what DNS is or what it does. In this article, we explain it in an understandable way: what is DNS, how does it work and why is it so important?
What is DNS?
DNS stands for Domain name system. Simply put, it is the system that allows domain names such as surver.co.uk converts to an IP address such as 192.0.2.1. Every server on the Internet has a unique IP address, similar to a phone number. Since it is impractical for people to remember all those number strings, we use domain names. DNS is the system that handles this translation.
Compare it to searching for a contact in your phone: you type in the name, but your phone dials the number. This is also how DNS works - you type in a name, the system takes care of the rest.
How does DNS work?
When you visit a website, all sorts of things happen under the bonnet - automatically and at lightning speed:
- Entering a domain name: For example, you type surver.co.uk in your browser.
- DNS query: Your device sends a request to a DNS resolver (often from your ISP or an external service such as Google DNS).
- Search through DNS servers:
- First, the system checks whether the information is available locally (e.g. in the cache).
- If not, the resolver consults a root server that redirects to the correct TLD server (e.g. .nl).
- The request is then forwarded to the name server responsible for surver.co.uk.
- IP address received: The resolver receives the correct IP address from the name server.
- Website loading: The browser uses the IP address to connect to the server where the website is running.
The whole process usually takes less than a second. Thanks to caching, this does not have to be done every time; popular websites load extra fast as a result.
Why is DNS important?
1. Usability
DNS makes the internet accessible to everyone. Instead of numbers, we use logical, recognisable names. This makes browsing intuitive and clear.
2. Speed and performance
A fast and reliable DNS provider ensures that websites load smoothly. Slow or unreliable DNS servers can actually cause delays or error messages.
3. Security
DNS also plays an important role in online security. For instance, a DNS provider can block malicious domains even before your computer connects to a dangerous server. There are also special secure DNS protocols such as DNSSEC and DoH (DNS over HTTPS) that help protect your data.
4. Stability and uptime
For website owners, DNS is crucial. A correctly configured DNS zone ensures that e-mail works properly, your website is accessible and your subdomains function correctly. Errors in DNS settings can cause downtime or miss important messages.
5. Flexibility
Via DNS, you can easily create pointers to different servers or services - such as a separate e-mail server, a subdomain for your webshop or a separate server for your API.
DNS is a silent force behind almost every online activity. From loading websites to sending e-mails - without a functioning DNS system, little will come of it. Understanding how DNS works and why it is important not only helps with technical problems, but also makes you better prepared if you manage your own domain or run a website.
Do you have questions about DNS settings or want advice on optimal configurations? Our team at Surver will be happy to help you with personal support and technical expertise.
