Tag: PTR record

DNS DNS records Network

PTR record: Why should you care about it?

PTR record is one of the critical DNS record types that you should know. It is one of the few that warrants special attention. Why, we will see in this article. 

DNS record – what does it mean?

To start, let’s see what precisely the DNS records are. They are nothing more than text instructions. Its primary function is to instruct domain name servers on managing traffic to your domains and subdomains. In addition, the network for websites is the entire Internet. So, a DNS record is a single mapping that connects an IP address to a resource in DNS. They are organized into DNS zones and kept on nameservers.

What is a PTR record?

PTR records, also known as Pointer records, are a DNS record that links an IP address to a domain name. It is proof that the IP address being checked is indeed tied to the domain name and that it is not a hoax. So, it allows you to check and verify that the IP address you’re using belongs to the domain name. Furthermore, it demonstrates that it is not a hoax. Thanks to the Pointer record, verifying distinct pieces or services, such as a mail server, is simple.

How to check your PTR record?

Structure

The structure of the PTR record is simple and easy to understand. Here is an example how what it could look like:

  • TYPE: PTR record – It denotes the DNS record type. 
  • Host: 78.159.213.32 – You must provide the host’s IP address in this field. An IPV4 or IPv6 address is possible.
  • POINTS TO: example.com – You can use this field to show the domain name.
  • TTL: 1h – You set the TTL or time-to-live value here.

How to create a PTR record?

It’s simple to set up a DNS Pointer record. So, let’s break it down into steps.

  1. It would be best if you first built a Master Reverse Zone.

In a Master Reverse Zone, the PTR record can exist. However, it’s important to note that it shouldn’t be used in a conventional Master zone. The IP address in the Master Reverse Zone should always be in reverse order. For example, if the IP address is 32.213.159.78., you should enter it as 78.159.213.32. Regardless of whether it’s an IPv4 or IPv6 address, the same rule applies.

  1. The next step is to generate the Pointer record.

When adding the PTR record, you’ll also have to input it backward. You should have a matching A or AAAA record for each Pointer record. As a result, make sure to double-check!

  1. Finally, add the NS records.

NS records pointing to your nameservers should be added to the IP provider. Your Reverse DNS zone is now complete!

Why is it important to use rDNS service?

PTR record vs. A record

When we compare the A and PTR records, we’ll see that they’re polar opposites. This is because the A record links a domain name to an IP address (IPv4). On the other hand, the PTR record is used to resolve an IP address (IPv4 or IPv6) to a domain name.

It’s also worth noting that the A and PTR records are located in separate DNS zones. The A record should be added to a Primary (Master) DNS zone, but the PTR record can only exist in a Master Reverse DNS zone and operate.

Conclusion

By and large, the PTR is a really fundamental DNS record that you have to know. Start using it for your domain to lessen the number of bounce emails. It is not difficult. You could just follow the steps above. Good luck!

DNS

Why is it important to use rDNS service?

Did you configure the rDNS zone of your domain properly? Well, if you don’t remember, soon you will know it. Your e-mails will go missing or directly to the SPAM folder. When it’s about configuring your host, it’s not enough to set up only a Forward DNS zone. You need an rDNS zone too. 

From now you have a clue about why it is important to use rDNS service, and it’s not minor! But let’s dig a bit more into the topic.

​​What is rDNS?

The reverse DNS or rDNS is a service that allows the execution of reverse DNS lookups. A forward DNS maps domain names to their corresponding IP addresses. Reverse DNS maps IP addresses to domain names. 

Managed DNS plans usually include rDNS service. If not, providers offer it for you at a cost. What you can do when you have it, it’s to generate a reverse DNS zone. There you will add pointer or PTR records. They are useful to prove the match between the IP addresses and the domain name.

Servers from other enterprises can backtrack the IP address to the domain via the PTR records. This way, they can know everything is legit and be protected from scams. 

​​What is a PTR record?

A pointer or PTR record is a type of DNS record that associates an IP address and the hostname.

Whenever an administrator or a server has to verify if an IP address truly belongs to a specific domain, they execute an rDNS query and look for the PTR records in the reverse DNS zone. In case that the PTR record or records can’t be found, this can provoke an authentication issue and more. For instance, e-mails won’t be delivered correctly, or they will be considered SPAM.

Why is it important to use rDNS service?

  • Basically, if you don’t set up the rDNS, the e-mail servers of people (clients, other companies, your providers, etc.) who want to send you e-mails won’t be able to verify your domain, and you might not be able to send or receive e-mails. Communication is essential for businesses!
  • It will support your reliability for clients as a legit product or service provider.
  • The rDNS service is very important for IP networks owners because they all need to perform reverse lookups. 
  • E-mails for everybody, but especially for businesses, are a professional way to communicate with clients, a way to close deals, or to get opportunities. Not ensuring that messages are correctly sent or received can really mean a loss for you and your pocket. 

Best 3 rDNS providers. 

ClouDNS has suitable choices for all businesses sizes. As a reference, see its rDNS Premium S. costs $2.95 monthly. Moreover, its rDNS service is built on Anycast DNS network, meaning speed and security for you!

Constellix offers you a robust infrastructure and a different payment model. It doesn’t charge a subscription, only what you use (pay-per-usage). 

easyDNS is a reliable provider in the market since 1998. It’s easy to use, and its rDNS is available for $24.95 yearly. 

Top Affordable Premium DNS Hosting providers

Conclusion.

To operate without rDNS is too risky for your business! E-mails that don’t reach their proper destination don’t exist for your clients. Don’t lose! Get a quality rDNS service and prevent problems. Remember that one stitch on time can save you nine later!