Common DNS record types explained
DNS records translate domain names into the technical information browsers, mail servers, and other services need.
Core records
A records point a hostname to an IPv4 address. AAAA records point to an IPv6 address. CNAME records alias one hostname to another hostname. NS records identify authoritative nameservers. SOA records describe zone authority and timing information.
Email and verification records
MX records route mail to mail exchangers by priority. TXT records store text-based policies and verification values, including SPF, DKIM, DMARC-related data, site verification, and service ownership proofs.
PTR records provide reverse DNS for IP addresses. SRV records publish service locations for protocols that support them.
How NerdTools helps
The DNS lookup tool checks common record types, while the SPF, DMARC, and MX tools interpret email-specific records and turn raw DNS into practical recommendations.
FAQ
Can a CNAME coexist with other records?
A hostname with a CNAME generally should not have other record types at the same name. Use provider guidance for edge cases.
What is TTL?
TTL is the time DNS resolvers can cache a record before checking again. Lower TTLs can help during changes but increase query volume.
Where do SPF and DMARC live?
SPF is usually a TXT record at the domain. DMARC is a TXT record at _dmarc.example.com.