Here are some interesting DNS terms you may not know yet. They are helpful both for beginner DNS administrators and more advanced ones. 

Dynamic DNS

Dynamic DNS automatically updates your IP address every time it is replaced. The Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are commonly changing it since it is easier for them to manage their large networks. For that reason, it is really useful to implement Dynamic DNS, for example, for your CCTV cameras for surveillance.

Anycast DNS

If you want to boost the DNS resolution process of your domain, you should consider Anycast DNS. It is a routing mechanism that works by placing one IP address into several name servers that are positioned in different points of the world. That way, the DNS request (DNS query) takes the shortest path, and the closest server provides the needed data.

DNSSEC

DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) brings extra protection to your DNS (Domain Name System). It applies cryptographic authentication for the DNS data (DNS records) that goes around the Internet. Besides, Domain Name System Security Extensions provide insurance for the origin of the DNS data and its integrity. 

DNS query

DNS query is the process of searching DNS data (DNS records). Usually, that is the IP address (A record or AAAA record), but it could be a different DNS record of a domain name. DNS queries are initiated by users every time they want to visit a specific website. The DNS resolver (Recursive DNS server) receives the DNS query and asks for the needed information from the Authoritative DNS servers.

DNS server

The DNS servers are two types:

Authoritative name server: It replies to DNS queries. It is a source of reliable data, and it doesn’t just contain cached replies from another name server. Moreover, it is able to answer requests that are related to domain names registered in its configuration system.

Recursive name servers: Its main goal is to receive the user’s DNS query and look for the desired information. They ask many servers until they find the answer. Typically, they are described as the link between the user and authoritative name servers.

DNS cache

The DNS cache is a method for saving the DNS records for a particular amount of time of the already requested domain name. It is a widespread method included in different devices, like computers, tablets, mobiles, and DNS resolvers (Recursive DNS servers). Its primary purpose is to minimize the amount of time for resolving a domain name. Moreover, it simplifies the assignment of the Recursive DNS server by reducing the number of complete DNS lookups for a precise domain name.

DNS zone

The term “DNS zone” was originally defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) in 1987. To give it a brief definition, it is a DNS namespace, where all DNS records (A record, SOA record, PTR record, etc.) are stored. You can manage the DNS zone if you are a DNS administrator. That includes editing or deleting. Furthermore, if you want your Domain Name System to function properly, you must configure it correctly.

DNS propagation

DNS propagation is the amount of time required for spreading the new DNS information (DNS records) you made through the rest of the network. Let’s say you adjusted your A or AAAA record and replaced the IP address of a hostname, which should be distributed to all of the recursive servers. The process of DNS propagation could take from one hour up to 72 hours. 

Conclusion

So, now you know some very interesting and helpful DNS terms. For sure, they are going to help you improve the management of your DNS.