What is a domain name system (DNS)?

DNS is an acronym for domain name systems. It refers to a hierarchical distribution naming system that is normally used for computers, services or any resource. It is normally used for those computers that are connected to the Internet or any other private network. A domain name associates a variety of information with domain names that are then assigned to each of the participating entities.

What does it do?

Ideally a DNS easily translates most of the memorized domain names to the different numerical IP addresses that are required for the purposes of pin pointing the computer services and devices all over the world. It is therefore an essential part of the world of internet services since it provides a distributed keyword-based redirection service. In simple English, it operates in the same way as a phonebook. Essentially, it translates the human friendly instructions that are put into the computer, to the machine world instructions and creates a platform for seamless transitions and relations.

How does it work?

The Domain Name System works by distributing the duty of assigning domain names and mapping these names to the different IP addresses. It does this by designating authoritative name servers to each of these domains. These authoritative name servers are typically assigned in order for them to be responsible for their particular domains. As such, they can in turn assign other authoritative name servers for their respective sub-domains. It is a mechanism that has over the years made the process of DNS distribution fault tolerant thereby avoiding the need for a single central register that has to be updated regularly.