An authoritative server is like a master server for a particular zone of the Domain Name System (DNS). When a DNS query is made for a specific domain name, the authoritative server provides the IP address for that domain. Other name servers query the authoritative server for updates and cache the received information for future use.
How do Master and Secondary Name Servers Work?
A zone can have only one master name server, but multiple secondary name servers for backup purposes. However, each name server can assume both master and secondary roles as defined in the configuration file. The master server maintains and updates the zone data, and all changes reflecting on other secondary servers are considered authoritative.
What is the Difference Between Authoritative and Non-Authoritative Servers?
An authoritative DNS server owns the IP address records for the domains in its zone. When a query is made to an authoritative server, it provides the accurate information for the domain. A non-authoritative server is a cache server that stores information fetched from other servers to provide quicker results for subsequent queries.
How Does an Authoritative Server Work?
When a user types in a domain name in their browser, a DNS request is sent to the ISP (Internet Service Provider). The DNS query goes through a recursive server, which might have the required information cached. If the server is not authoritative or doesn’t have the latest data, the query is sent to the ultimate owner of the IP – the authoritative server for the domain. The authoritative server provides the IP address for the domain queried.
Why is an Authoritative Server Important in DNS?
An authoritative server is essential in DNS because of its accuracy and reliability. It is responsible for providing the correct IP addresses for domain names queried. If the information in the authoritative server is not up-to-date or inaccurate, it can cause problems in accessing the desired domain. Hence, an authoritative server is the ultimate source of domain information.
Conclusion
An authoritative server is vital in DNS as it provides accurate information about domain names queried. It’s the ultimate owner of the IP address for specific domains. Maintaining updated and reliable authoritative servers is critical for seamless and uninterrupted access to websites and applications.
FAQs
What happens when an authoritative server is down?
If an authoritative server is down, it affects the domain’s resolution process. There is no way to update the authoritative server for that domain, making it difficult to access any resources associated with that domain.
What is the difference between a primary and secondary DNS server?
A primary or master DNS server is the server responsible for maintaining and updating the DNS records for a specific zone. A secondary server, also known as a slave server, obtains its data by copying the records from the primary server, providing fault tolerance and redundancy.
Can a DNS query have multiple authoritative servers?
No, a DNS query can’t have multiple authoritative servers. However, a domain zone can have multiple authoritative servers to provide backup and redundancy in case of primary server failure.
