Understanding DNS Settings and Records
When setting up your Zibster website or email, you may need to update your domain’s DNS settings. DNS (Domain Name System) connects your domain name to your website and email so everything works together correctly.
This guide explains the most common DNS terms and how they work to ensure your website and email function properly.
WHAT IS DNS?
DNS stands for Domain Name System. It acts like the internet’s address book, telling browsers and email servers where to find your website and where to send your email.
When someone types your domain (like yourstudio.com) into a browser, DNS translates that name into the correct IP address so your Zibster website loads properly.
COMMON DNS TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
- A Record Points your domain to the IP address where your website is hosted.
Example: An A Record might point yourstudio.com to 104.26.3.2
- CNAME Record
Points a subdomain (like www) to another domain name.
Example: A CNAME might point www.yourstudio.com to yourstudio.com.
- MX Record
Stands for Mail Exchange. These records direct email sent to your domain to the correct mail server.
Example: If you use Zibster Mailbox, your MX records will point to Rackspace’s mail servers.
- TXT Record
Used for domain verification or email authentication (like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC).
Example: A TXT record may verify ownership for Google, Facebook Business, or another service.
- Nameservers
Nameservers store and manage all of your domain’s DNS records.
Example: If your nameservers are set to Zibster, your DNS records are managed inside your Zibster account.
- TTL (Time To Live)
Determines how long it takes for DNS changes to update across the internet.
Example: A TTL of 3600 means changes may take up to one hour to take effect.
WHEN YOU MIGHT NEED TO UPDATE DNS
You may need to update your DNS settings if you are:
- Verifying your domain with a 3rd party marketing service (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Go High Level, etc.)
- Setting up a third-party email service (like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365)
- Verifying your domain with a service such as Facebook, Meta, or Google Search Console
WHERE TO ACCESS DNS SETTINGS
You can access DNS settings at the company where your domain is registered.
- If your nameservers are pointed to Zibster:
You can manage your DNS settings directly inside your Zibster account.
- If your domain nameservers are managed elsewhere (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc):
You’ll need to log in to that account to make any updates.
If you’re unsure where your domain is hosted or need help updating your DNS, Zibster Support can assist.
