There are many DNS record types. Of course, some of them are not applied so frequently. But, on the other hand, several DNS record types are essential for almost every DNS zone. So, let’s check out which they are and what their purpose is!
Additional DNS record types every beginner should know
SOA record
SOA (Start Of Authority) record one of these DNS record types that have a fundamental purpose. Every DNS zone should have this DNS record first, and without it, it simply won’t function. The SOA record shows the origin of the authority DNS zone. In addition, inside it is stored important data for the particular DNS zone. For example, the SOA record holds the information and contact details of the DNS administrator. It even contains several parameters, such as the domain serial number. It is crucial to remember and understand that you should have just a single SOA record for a particular DNS zone (DNS zone file).
NS record
One of the simple and basic DNS record types is also the NS record, where the short NS stands for nameserver. Its actual purpose is to act as an ID card, for example, for your nameserver. More precisely, the NS record helps with defining which is the name server accountable to the specific DNS zone. If for some reason, the DNS zone does not have inside such DNS record, it won’t be capable of completely working.
A record
The most common and popular one of the DNS record types is probably the A record. Its primary aim is to connect a domain name with its matching IP address (IPv4 address). Every time a user wants to visit and explore a particular website (domain name), it requests precisely the A record. It is required to point to the proper IP address.
The A record is a vital part of the DNS configuration. If it is not available in the DNS zone, the domain name would not be able to be resolved.
CNAME record
The CNAME record is another popular DNS record. It shows the actual canonical domain name. In addition, the CNAME record usually plays an important role for the subdomains by linking them to the domain name. It is important to note that this DNS record cannot coexist with any other DNS record types.
MX record
The Mail Exchanger record, more commonly known as the MX record, is employed to indicate the email server accountable for accepting emails for that domain name. An important thing about the MX record is that it has to point to the hostname of the incoming mail server. Therefore, make sure you are not mistaking it for the IP address. The MX record is necessary because you won’t receive emails if you don’t have one.
PTR record
The pointer record, also known as the PTR record, is commonly used for backchecks. Its purpose is to point the IP address (IPv4 or IPv6) to a hostname. The goal is to confirm to other servers that an IP address actually belongs to a hostname before utilizing a service, engaging in communication, or some other activity. The PTR record serves for verifying the host.