What is DNS, and How Does it Work?
DNS is all about translating human-readable domain names to IP addresses. The Domain Name System (DNS) is a computer system that translates a web address into an IP address so that the browser can find and connect with the website you want. For instance, the DNS system can translate domain names like www.google.com or ftp.example.org into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses like 192.168.0.1 or 128.2.3.4. You can almost imagine DNS as the internet’s address book.
Pretty much every country in the world uses their DNS system to censor certain websites in accordance with local laws, most notably China, which uses a censorship system called the Great Firewall of China to block certain content from the internet. With a China firewall checker, you can use your computer’s internet connection to verify if certain websites can be accessed in that country. The Chinese government blocks a number of sites using its national DNS system, but it doesn’t block everything.
How does it work?
When you type in a web address, your computer sends out a request for information from a server called a name server on the internet. A name server is a computer that stores information about websites and their corresponding IP addresses. Your computer then receives a response telling it what IP address to use to reach the website. This process happens automatically every time you visit a new website.
Why do you need DNS?
You don’t need DNS, but it’s beneficial because it allows us to easily access websites by typing in their domain names instead of remembering long strings of numbers.
What are some examples of DNS?
There are many different types of DNS servers, including:
- Primary DNS Servers
These are the primary servers used by most people when trying to access a website. They store the IP addresses of websites and their corresponding domain names.
- Secondary DNS Servers
These servers help resolve domain names when there isn’t enough space on the primary DNS servers. For example, if a user tries to access a website using its domain name but the primary DNS servers cannot respond quickly enough, secondary DNS servers will be contacted to help them find the correct IP address.
- Root DNS Servers
Root DNS servers contain the root records, including top-level domains such as .com, .edu, and .net. These servers are also responsible for storing the IP addresses of websites within each domain.
When it comes to excellent firewall test results, the best way to ensure that your network is secure is to run multiple tests simultaneously. That’s why we created our free Great Firewall Test Tool.
There are also free tools on the internet that allows you to perform tests to determine if your computer functions properly to connect to the internet.
Test 1 – Check for open ports
This test checks whether any open ports exist on your router. Open ports allow hackers to gain unauthorized access to your computer via the internet.
Test 2 – Check for malicious software
Malicious software refers to programs designed to steal personal data, damage your device, or even cause harm to your computer. The purpose of this test is to check for any malicious software running on your device.
Test 3 – Check for outdated firmware
Outdated firmware refers to old versions of operating system files stored on your router. Hackers may exploit these outdated files to gain access to your router.
In a nutshell, DNS technology allows users to access websites by simply entering their domain names into a browser window. It’s important to note that not all websites require DNS. Some sites only work without it, while others won’t function correctly unless you have an active connection to the Internet.