Name Server Record Types
Name Servers hold the records that are instructions for how you want your domain functionality. This article describes the most common or inquired about record types.
Record Type | Description |
|---|---|
A | Address records map your domain name to a server using an IP address. A sample IP address is 123.4.67.5. |
CNAME | Canonical name records map your subdomains to another server using a server name. Unlike A Records, CNAME records cannot use IP addresses. All CNAME records must have a host or subdomain specified like www. CNAME records cannot be used for the root domain |
MX | Mail Transfer records map email to the server specified. You can have multiple MX records for the same domain or subdomain but most services only use one record. If you configure multiple records, the first server used will be the one with the lowest number set for priority. |
TXT | Text records are used in a variety of ways. TXT records are most commonly used for verification to allow a service to run on your domain. Other types of records are actually TXT records that other servers interpret. For example, SPF, DMARC, and DKIM are all mail-related DNS records that are entered as TXT records. |
| PTR | Pointer records do the opposite of an A record. PTR records resolve an IP address to a domain name. The purpose of this record is mainly administrative to verify that an IP address links to a domain name. Not all DNS hosting providers offer this type of DNS record. Generally, most inquiries we receive regarding PTR records are from those who are confusing PTR with A records. In most cases, the A record is all that is required and the internet service provider that leases the IP address handles the PTR. If you require the use of a PTR record, we recommend opening a free account with Cloudflare. |