Web Development

What is DNS (Domain Name System)?

DNS (Domain Name System) is the internet's address book — it translates human-readable domain names into the numerical IP addresses of servers where websites are hosted.

Definition

DNS or Domain Name System is the internet's address book. When you type a website address into your browser, DNS translates that human-readable domain name into the numerical IP address of the server where the website is hosted, then routes your browser to the right place. DNS settings also control where your email is delivered, enable security features, and manage subdomains. Changes to DNS settings can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours to fully propagate across the internet.

Why It Matters for Small Businesses

Most small business owners never think about DNS until something goes wrong, and when it does the consequences can be serious: websites going offline, email stopping, or a new site launch failing to go live on schedule. Understanding the basics of DNS helps you maintain control of your domain and avoid situations where a former developer holds your site hostage.

Example

A retail business hires a new developer to rebuild their website but realizes afterward that the original developer still controls their DNS settings and is unresponsive. Because they do not have access to their domain registrar, they cannot point the domain to the new server. Months of website migration work is stalled because of a DNS access issue that could have been avoided with proper account management.

Related Terms

Web HostingDNS settings point your domain to your hosting server

SSL / HTTPSSome SSL certificate types require DNS verification

Website MigrationDNS changes are a critical step in any website migration

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