DNS Server Types

All DNS servers fall into one of four categories: Recursive resolvers, root nameservers, TLD nameservers, and authoritative nameservers, all of which work together to connect the Internet user with the desired website. When a client sends a request to connect with that website, the recursive resolver is the first to receive the request and acts as a middleman between the client and a DNS nameserver. The resolver either responds with cached data or sends requests to the root, TLD, and authoritative nameservers (in that order) to obtain the requested IP address.

The DNS root nameservers are the first stop in a recursive resolver’s quest for DNS records. The root nameserver accepts the resolver’s query and responds by directing the query to a TLD nameserver based on the domain name extension – .com, .net, .org, etc. – much like a receptionist directs you to the correct floor of a building. There are multiple copies of the thirteen types of root nameserver worldwide, and they use Anycast routing to provide quick responses.

The TLD nameserver holds information for all domain names that share a common extension, like .com or .net. These nameservers are divided into two categories: generic top-level domains, which are not country-specific (e.g., .com), and country code top-level domains (e.g., .uk). The TLD nameserver acts like a directory at the entrance of each floor of a building, identifying the location of the room destination. 

Finally, the authoritative nameserver is the last step in a resolver’s journey for an IP address, functioning as the final room with filing cabinets full of the information needed for the website. It contains specific data for the domain name it serves and provides the resolver with an IP address or an alias domain. 

Looking to learn more? We suggest heading over to Cloudflare’s Learning Center for an in-depth look at DNS server types.