DNS connects your domain name to the services that make your business work. Whether it's your website, email or a third-party platform, DNS tells internet traffic where it needs to go.
Most businesses rarely need to edit DNS. When they do, it's usually during a website migration, email setup or domain verification. Understanding the purpose of the most common record types makes those changes much less intimidating.
Understanding DNS
Think of DNS as the directory for your domain.
Every DNS record provides a specific instruction. One record sends visitors to your website, another directs email, while others verify ownership or enable security features.
Changes don't always happen immediately. DNS updates are cached across the internet, so it can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours before everyone sees the new information. This process is known as DNS propagation.
A and AAAA records
A and AAAA records point your domain to a server. A records point to IPv4 addresses, while AAAA records point to IPv6 addresses.
These are typically updated when moving your website to a new hosting provider or server.
CNAME records
A CNAME creates an alias from one hostname to another.
It's commonly used for www, subdomains and cloud services. Rather than pointing directly to an IP address, a CNAME follows another hostname, making DNS easier to manage.
Many third-party services also use CNAME records to connect applications or verify ownership.
MX records
MX records control where email is delivered.
If you move your email to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace or another provider, you'll normally update your MX records while leaving your website unchanged.
Incorrect MX records can interrupt email delivery, so they're always worth double-checking before saving changes.
TXT records
TXT records are used for verification and email security.
You'll commonly encounter them when verifying domain ownership with online services, or configuring SPF, DKIM and DMARC.
These records play an important role in email deliverability and protecting your domain from spoofing.
Other records you may encounter
Some records are less common but still useful. NS records identify the authoritative name servers for your domain. SOA records contain administrative information about the DNS zone. CAA records control which certificate authorities can issue SSL certificates for your domain. SRV records are used by some communication and application services.
Most businesses won't need to edit these regularly, but it's helpful to recognise what they do.
Before making DNS changes
A few simple habits can prevent unnecessary downtime: record the existing values before making changes, update one record at a time, allow time for DNS propagation, double-check A and MX records before saving, and if you're unsure, ask your hosting provider before making changes.
Small mistakes in DNS can affect websites and email, so taking a few extra minutes is always worthwhile.
Final thoughts
DNS doesn't need to be complicated.
Once you understand what each record type does, most DNS changes become straightforward and low risk.
Since 2008, Network Dynamics has been helping Australian businesses manage domains, DNS and hosting infrastructure. Whether you're moving websites, configuring email or connecting third-party services, our engineers can help ensure your DNS is configured correctly the first time.
