DNS Lookup Tool: Query Domain Name Records
Our DNS lookup tool lets you query any DNS record type for any domain. Check A records (IPv4), AAAA records (IPv6), MX records (mail), CNAME records (aliases), NS records (nameservers), TXT records (verification), and more. Results include TTL values and DNSSEC validation status.
DNS (Domain Name System) is the internet's phone book, translating human-readable domain names into IP addresses. Understanding DNS records is essential for website management, email configuration, and troubleshooting connectivity issues.
DNS Record Types Explained
A Record: Maps a domain to an IPv4 address (e.g., 192.0.2.1). The most fundamental DNS record.
AAAA Record: Maps a domain to an IPv6 address (e.g., 2001:db8::1). Needed for IPv6 connectivity.
MX Record: Specifies mail servers for the domain with priority values. Lower numbers = higher priority.
CNAME Record: Creates an alias pointing to another domain. Cannot coexist with other records at the same name.
NS Record: Identifies the authoritative nameservers for a domain.
TXT Record: Holds text data. Used for SPF, DKIM, domain verification, and other purposes.
SOA Record: Contains administrative information about the zone including primary nameserver and email.
PTR Record: Used for reverse DNS lookup—mapping IP addresses back to domain names.
Understanding TTL
TTL (Time To Live) specifies how long a DNS record should be cached by resolvers. Common values:
300 (5 minutes): For records that change frequently or during migrations.
3600 (1 hour): Good balance for most records.
86400 (1 day): For stable records that rarely change.
Common Use Cases
Troubleshooting: Verify DNS records are configured correctly.
Migration: Check that DNS changes have propagated.
Email setup: Verify MX, SPF, and DKIM records.
Security: Check for DNSSEC validation and CAA records.
FAQ
Why do I see multiple A records?
Multiple A records are used for load balancing (round-robin DNS) or redundancy. Clients typically use the first IP returned, though order may be randomized.
What does NXDOMAIN mean?
NXDOMAIN means the domain doesn't exist or has no records. This is different from NOERROR with empty results, which means the domain exists but has no records of the requested type.