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# What is a Nameserver?

## Nameservers in the DNS System 

A name server is an element of the [domain name system (known as DNS)](https://help.ex2.com/en/article/what-is-the-domain-name-system-or-dns-oen40o/?bust=1784819338957) that converts a website’s domain name into an IP address using a numerical database. 

This term can be assigned to any server using DNS software, as well as to the server of a host managing the domain names of its clients.

Since name servers connect domain names to IP addresses, this configuration avoids users having to memorize a series of numbers in order to access a website. 

When a user searches for a domain name, their browser sends a request to the DNS system to find the respective name server. This name server will then point to the server hosting the site.

When migrating to a new hosting provider, website owners must change the configuration of their name server to point to the new hosting. 

A name server must also be modified when installing a Web Application Firewall (WAF).  You can do this by editing the website’s DNS records through your web host or domain registrar.