What is a Nameserver and Why Do I Need It? Print

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A nameserver is a specialized server on the internet that translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses and vice versa. This translation process allows users to access websites using easily memorable domain names, like www.example.com, instead of numeric IP addresses, such as 174.120.119.251.

The Importance of Nameservers

Nameservers play a crucial role in the functioning of the internet. They serve as intermediaries that bridge the gap between human-friendly domain names and the numerical IP addresses that computers use to identify each other on the internet. Without nameservers, users would need to memorize complex IP addresses to access websites, which would be both inconvenient and impractical.

When you register a domain name, you need to configure at least two nameservers to handle requests for that domain name. These nameservers store the DNS records associated with the domain, such as Address (A) records, Mail Exchanger (MX) records, and Canonical Name (CNAME) records. When a user types your domain name into their web browser, the browser sends a request to these nameservers to obtain the IP address associated with the domain. The browser then uses this IP address to connect to the webserver hosting your website and fetches the requested content.

Why You Need at Least Two Nameservers

Having at least two nameservers for your domain is essential for redundancy and reliability. In case one nameserver becomes unavailable or experiences technical issues, the other nameserver can still handle requests for your domain, ensuring uninterrupted access to your website or online services. This redundancy helps maintain the stability and resilience of the internet infrastructure.

Choosing Nameservers for Your Domain

When you register a domain, your domain registrar or hosting provider typically provides default nameservers. These nameservers are pre-configured to work with your domain and hosting account, making it easy to set up your website without any manual configuration.

However, you also have the option to use custom nameservers, which can be helpful if you want to use a specific DNS provider or have more control over your DNS settings. To use custom nameservers, you need to configure them with your domain registrar and ensure that they have the correct DNS records for your domain.

In summary, nameservers are an essential component of the internet, translating human-readable domain names into IP addresses that computers can understand. Configuring at least two nameservers for your domain ensures redundancy and reliable access to your website or online services.


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