Whether you've connected an external domain or had to input some records for Google verification (for example: Google Workspace or getting your site indexed), you've probably come into contact with DNS records. Here's a breakdown of the different records you'll see when managing your domain:
- A (Address) Record:
The A record links a domain name to the IP address of the server where the website is hosted. This record is made for sending web traffic to the correct server. At Universe, we don't use these records because we don't use a static IP address; you'll find these if you're transferring in or out a domain with other registrars.
- CNAME (Canonical Name) Record:
The CNAME record is used to alias one domain name to another. It's used to direct traffic from a subdomain to the main domain. We used to require these when configuring external domains to your Universe site, combined with Forwarding!
- MX (Mail Exchange) Record:
MX records are used to direct email traffic to the right mail server. These records specify the mail server responsible for receiving emails on behalf of the domain. These are more commonly associated with Google Workspace or iCloud+.
- TXT (Text) Record:
TXT records can hold any type of random text and are often used for verification and authentication purposes. When indexing your site with Google, they'll give you a custom TXT record to verify you own that domain.
- NS (Name Server) Record:
NS records specify the authoritative name servers for the domain. These records are essential for directing DNS queries to the correct name servers. These have made connecting external domains easier for us (and you)!
Understanding these different types of DNS records can help effectively manage a domain and ensure internet traffic routes correctly. This is just to give you a better grasp of DNS records, but you guys are always welcome to chat with Support if you need more help!