What are the different types of DNS records?

There are several types of DNS records. Each has specific roles and functions. Here is a short list of the main ones to help you distinguish them and understand their respective uses.

The most common DNS record types

• A: This record is used to match a DNS name to an ipv4 IP address.

Example: www.mondomaine.com. IN A 212.27.35.185

• AAAA: This DNS record is used to match a DNS name to an ipv6 IP address.

Example: irc.mondomaine.com. IN AAAA 2b04:ehf:1:f:3p0:c4ff:fia5:4da0

*CNAME: This type of record is used to match two DNS names.

Example: sql.mondomaine.ext. IN CNAME mysql1.unautredomaine.ext.

• MX: An MX record allows you to configure for a given DNS area (associated with mail servers) in the form of a DNS name.

Example: mondomaine.com. IN MX 10 mondomaine.com.

The DNS name used in an MX record must be of type A. It is not possible to use an IP or a CNAME record.

The figure represents the priority level. This is the order in which mail servers must be contacted if there is more than one.

• TXT: This record stores a string of up to 1024 characters. As the name indicates, it is used to add text elements.

• URL Redirect: This record allows you to redirect your domain (or subdomain) to another web address. The redirect is not displayed in the URL address bar.

• URL Frame: Like the Redirect URL, this record does the redirect to the specified website. However, it differs by displaying the redirected domain name in the URL bar

Updated on: 18/05/2023