What Is TXT Record in DNS Server?
When it comes to managing domain names and their associated IP addresses, the Domain Name System (DNS) plays a crucial role. DNS servers are responsible for translating human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses.
However, DNS does not only store IP address information; it can also store various other types of data. One such type is the TXT record.
Understanding the TXT Record
The TXT record, short for “text record,” is a type of DNS record that allows domain owners to add arbitrary text data to their domain’s DNS zone file. This data can be used for various purposes, including providing additional information about the domain, verifying domain ownership, and configuring email authentication protocols like SPF and DKIM.
How to Create a TXT Record
Creating a TXT record is relatively simple. It involves adding a specific set of information to your domain’s DNS settings using your domain registrar or hosting provider’s control panel or DNS management interface. Here’s how you can do it:
- Login to your domain registrar or hosting provider’s control panel.
- Navigate to the DNS management section.
- Locate the option to add a new record and select “TXT.”
- Enter the desired text data in the provided field.
- Save or apply the changes.
It’s important to note that when adding text data in the TXT record, certain rules must be followed. The text should be enclosed within double quotes (“”) if it contains spaces or special characters.
Additionally, each line of text should not exceed 255 characters.
Common Uses of TXT Records
Now that we know how to create a TXT record, let’s explore some common use cases for this type of DNS record:
Domain Verification
Many online services require domain owners to verify their ownership. This often involves adding a specific TXT record to the DNS zone file, provided by the service, to prove that you have control over the domain.
Once verified, you can start using the service and enjoy its features.
Email Authentication
TXT records are commonly used for email authentication purposes. For example, SPF (Sender Policy Framework) records help prevent email spoofing by specifying which servers are authorized to send emails on behalf of your domain.
Another example is DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail), which adds a digital signature to outgoing emails for validation purposes.
Additional Information
Domain owners can also use TXT records to provide additional information about their domains. This could include contact information, copyright notices, or even instructions for other services or humans interacting with the domain.
Conclusion
In summary, the TXT record is a versatile DNS record type that allows domain owners to add custom text data to their DNS zone files. It serves various purposes such as domain verification, email authentication, and providing additional information about the domain.
By understanding how to create and utilize TXT records effectively, you can enhance your domain’s functionality and security.