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Your domain name is your website's address on the internet, but behind the scenes, it's the Domain Name System (DNS) that makes it all work. DNS records are like the instruction manual that tells the internet where to find your website and how to handle email related to your domain. Understanding DNS records and domain management is crucial for ensuring your business or blog is found online and that your email works reliably.

What are DNS Records?

Imagine DNS records as signposts on the internet highway. They direct traffic to the right destination. Here are some of the most important DNS record types:

• A Record: This record points your domain name (or a subdomain) to the IP address of your web server. It's the most fundamental record, ensuring people can access your website.
• CNAME Record: This record creates an alias for your domain or subdomain. For example, you might use a CNAME record to point www.yourdomain.com to yourdomain.com.
• MX Record: This record specifies the mail servers responsible for handling email sent to your domain. Without correct MX records, your emails might not be delivered or could end up in spam folders.
• TXT Record: This record can store text information associated with your domain. It's often used for email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) and domain verification.
• NS Records: These records specify the name servers responsible for storing the DNS records for your domain. They're like the master directory for your domain's signposts.

Why are DNS Records Important?

Correctly configured DNS records are essential for:

• Website Accessibility: Without a proper A record (or CNAME), people won't be able to find your website.
• Email Delivery: Incorrect MX records can lead to bounced emails or emails being marked as spam. Properly configured MX, SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records are crucial for email deliverability.
• Subdomains: DNS records allow you to create subdomains (like blog.yourdomain.com) for different sections of your website.
• Domain Verification: Some services, like Google Search Console, require you to verify domain ownership using TXT records.

Domain Management:

Domain management involves all aspects of managing your domain name, including:

• Registration: Registering your domain name through a registrar (like HostedLight).
• Renewal: Renewing your domain registration to prevent it from expiring.
• DNS Management: Managing your DNS records through your hosting provider's control panel (like cPanel) or your domain registrar's interface.

How Does This Relate to My Business/Blog?

• Being Found Online: If your A record isn't correctly set, your website won't be accessible. This means potential customers or readers won't be able to find you.
• Email Reliability: Incorrect MX records can seriously impact your email communication. Customers might not be able to contact you, and important emails could get lost. Poor email deliverability due to missing SPF, DKIM, or DMARC records can damage your reputation and make it harder to communicate effectively.
• Brand Consistency: Subdomains help you organize your website and maintain brand consistency. For example, using blog.yourdomain.com reinforces your brand while providing a dedicated space for your blog.

HostedLight and Your Domain:

HostedLight provides you with the tools you need to manage your DNS records and your domain. Through your cPanel account, you can easily edit your DNS records, ensuring your website is accessible and your email works reliably.

Getting Help with DNS:

DNS can seem complex, but HostedLight's support team is here to help. If you have any questions or need assistance with managing your DNS records, don't hesitate to contact us.

Need a Domain Name?

If you don't already have a domain name, you can purchase one directly through HostedLight! We offer a wide range of domain extensions at competitive prices, making it easy to find the perfect domain for your business or blog.

Ready to take control of your online presence?

Understanding DNS and domain management is essential for any business or blog. HostedLight makes it easy for you to manage your domain and ensure your website and email work seamlessly.

If you haven't already, sign up for a HostedLight hosting account today and start building your online presence. Visit HostedLight.com to choose the perfect plan for your needs. And if you need a domain name, you can register it right here with us! Visit HostedLight.com today to get started!