7 most commonly used DNS record types
The DNS record types are essential for the proper DNS configuration and management. There are various different DNS record types, and each one of them is implemented for a very specific reason.
A record
The A record, also known as the Address record, is the most popular of all DNS record types. The reason for that is simple. It is used to serve the most important function. The A record links the domain name to its IP address. More precisely, it is used for IPv4 addresses. In case you have an IPv6 address, don’t worry. There is a specific DNS record for it – the AAAA record.
SOA record
The SOA (Start of Authority) record is utilized for indicating the origin of the data. In addition, this record is contained crucial information related to the DNS zone, such as contact information about the DNS administrator and Refresh Rate. Thanks to it, the Secondary DNS servers understand when they should update their information. Every DNS zone is required to have an SOA record. Moreover, it is the very first DNS record that you should have.
MX record
The Mail eXchanger record, or just for short MX record, points to the mail server that is responsible for receiving email messages. This DNS record type is required if you want to make sure that you are going to receive all of your messages. Additionally, it prevents any issues related to spam.
You can adjust the TTL (Time-to-Live) value of the MX record and set different priorities depending on the capabilities of your mail servers.
NS record
NS record is another one of our list of DNS record types that is crucial to know. It serves to indicate the nameserver responsible for the DNS zone. Imagine it as the ID card of the nameserver. If you don’t have such a record, your DNS zone won’t function. Note that you should point the NS record to the nameserver.
PTR record
The PTR record becomes a necessity in case you want to send email messages without any issues. The pointer record (PTR record) is serving for the exact opposite action to the A record. It links an IP address (IPv4 or IPv6) to the associated domain name. Thanks to this record, you can implement Reverse DNS. It provides proof to your recipients that the IP address is actually related to your domain name. That way, you avoid any attempts for fraud and improve the deliverability of your messages.
CNAME record
The CNAME record serves to show which is the canonical domain name for the subdomain or domain name. In most cases, the CNAME record is utilized exactly for subdomains. That makes the DNS administration a lot more simple. Every change that you make for your domain name is going to update for each of your subdomains. You just need to create a CNAME record for your subdomains and point them to the domain name.
TXT record
The TXT record is another very useful DNS record. It contains simple text information for different outside sources. In the majority of cases, TXT record is implemented for verification and authentication purposes. That way, you can improve the level of trust in your domain name. As a result, that positively affects your internet reputation.
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Conclusion
All of these DNS record types are used very commonly, and it is best to understand the purpose of each one of them. That way, you can easily choose and add the one you need.