Quick summary
- What it is: The NS record (Name Server) is a type of record in the DNS zone that specifies which name servers are responsible for responding to DNS queries for a domain.
- What it's for: it helps connect the domain with the website, email and other associated services.
- When to check it: when changing DNS servers, connecting a domain, configuring email or reviewing propagation.
The NS record (Name Server) is a type of record in the DNS zone that specifies which name servers are responsible for responding to DNS queries for a domain. In other words, the NS record points to where the "database" of DNS configuration for that domain is located.
What is the NS record used for?
When the world's DNS system needs to resolve a domain — to find out which IP it points to, which mail server it has, etc. — it first queries the NS records to know which server to ask. The indicated NS server is the one that has authoritative and definitive information about that domain.
Example of NS records
A domain normally has at least two NS records to ensure redundancy:
yourdomain.com. NS ns1.bacan.com.
yourdomain.com. NS ns2.bacan.com.
This means that ns1.bacan.com and ns2.bacan.com are the authoritative servers for yourdomain.com.
Difference between NS record and changing nameservers
Although they are related, they are not exactly the same:
- Changing nameservers at the registrar: This is the action you take in the panel where your domain is registered (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Bacan customer area) to delegate DNS management to another provider. It affects all records.
- NS record in the DNS zone: This is the entry within the DNS zone itself that reflects that delegation. It is usually managed automatically by your hosting or DNS provider.
When will you encounter it?
The NS record appears in advanced DNS configurations, in DNS zone management for reseller hosting and in guides on how to create your own nameservers (glue records). For most users, NS records are managed automatically and do not need to be modified directly.
Why it matters in hosting
Understanding this concept will help you make better decisions when managing your service. In practice, it relates to the connection between the domain, the website, email and other associated services. If it appears in a guide, the control panel or a support response, review the context before making changes.
Related articles
- Domain
- DNS
- Nameservers
- A Record
- CNAME Record