How DNS Works
Kulani Baloyi / Jun 17, 2024
3 min read
Domain Name System, or DNS – the unsung hero of the internet.
Think of DNS as the internet's phonebook. Just like a phonebook translates names to phone numbers, DNS translates human-readable domain names (like [www.kulanibaloyi.com]) into numerical IP addresses (like 172.217.160.136) that computers use to connect to each other.
Here's a breakdown of how DNS works its magic:
- You type a web address: When you enter a domain name in your browser, your computer doesn't magically know where to go. It initiates a DNS request.
- Calling on the Recursive Resolver: Your computer first consults its local cache or the DNS server provided by your internet service provider (ISP). This acts like your personal rolodex, storing recently looked up addresses.
- The Search Begins: If the address isn't found locally, the request gets forwarded to a recursive resolver. Think of this as the information operator who helps you find the right number.
- Interrogating the Root Nameservers: The recursive resolver starts at the top of the DNS hierarchy, querying the root nameservers. These servers point to the TLD (Top-Level Domain) nameservers, like .com or .org.
- Following the Trail: The TLD nameserver then directs the resolver to the authoritative nameserver responsible for the specific domain ([www.kulanibaloyi.com] in this case).
- Delivery Time! The authoritative nameserver holds the golden ticket – the IP address for [www.kulanibaloyi.com]. This information is sent back down the chain, ultimately reaching your computer.
- Surfing Success: With the IP address in hand, your computer can now connect to the [invalid URL removed] server and voila! The website appears on your screen.
All this happens in milliseconds, making web browsing seem effortless. DNS is a distributed system, with millions of servers working together to ensure smooth navigation.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Cache Magic: To speed things up, your computer and ISP store frequently accessed DNS lookups for a certain period. This is why sometimes a website might load faster on a second visit.
- Security Matters: DNS plays a role in website security as well. It can be configured to direct users to secure versions of websites or prevent access to malicious ones.
So next time you effortlessly navigate the web, remember the invisible hero – DNS – working tirelessly behind the scenes to translate your requests and keep you connected.