What Is a Domain Name?

A domain name is a delegated name in DNS. It can point to web servers, email systems, verification records, and services.

Key points

• The root domain and subdomains are different names.
• A registrar controls delegation.
• A DNS provider publishes zone records.
• A web host or email provider may only provide target values; they do not always host DNS.

Where dig fits

Dig is useful because it lets you ask DNS one precise question at a time. Instead of guessing why a website, email system, or service is failing, you can check the record type that controls that part of the setup.

Practical next step

Start with the record type that matches the symptom. Use A or AAAA for website address issues, MX and TXT for email, CNAME for provider aliases, and NS or SOA for delegation problems.