DNS (Domain Name System)

DNS acts as the internet's "phonebook," translating human-readable domain names (like google.com) into numerical IP addresses that computers use to locate websites. It's a hierarchical, distributed system that allows users to access websites without needing to memorize long strings of numbers.

Understanding DNS: What It Is & How It Works

Function:

• Address Book: Converts domain names into IP addresses, enabling browsers to find the correct server.
• Decentralized: Distributed across many servers for robustness and reliability.
• Hierarchical: Structured in a hierarchy, with top-level domains (like .com, .org) at the top and individual domains below.
• Translation: Your computer sends a request to a DNS server to find the matching IP address for a typed domain.

How It Works:

1. Request: You enter a domain name (e.g., example.com) in your browser.
2. Query: Your computer queries a DNS server, usually via your ISP.
3. Resolution: The DNS server looks for the IP address or queries other servers if needed.
4. Response: The DNS server replies with the IP address.
5. Connection: Your browser connects to the IP address to load the website.

Why is DNS Important?

• User-Friendly: Allows users to access websites using memorable domain names.
• Internet Infrastructure: A foundational component of internet communication between users and websites.
• Flexibility: Lets websites change their IP addresses without affecting the user experience.