How to Check Which DNS Servers Are Assigned to a Domain

Understanding which DNS (Domain Name System) servers are assigned to a domain is essential for website management, as DNS servers are responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. This guide walks through several methods to check the DNS servers for a domain.

1. Use Online DNS Lookup Tools

Online DNS lookup tools are quick and convenient ways to check the DNS servers assigned to a domain. Some popular options include:

• MXToolbox: Enter your domain name on MXToolbox and select the “DNS Lookup” option to view the assigned DNS servers.
• WhatsMyDNS: Visit WhatsMyDNS.net and input your domain name to view DNS records.
• NSLookup.io: This tool allows you to search DNS records, including name servers, associated with your domain.

These tools will list the authoritative DNS servers that your domain is using.

2. Using Command Line Tools

For those who prefer command-line methods, there are several commands available to check DNS servers from your computer.

2.1. nslookup Command

The nslookup command is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.

Example:

This command will display the DNS servers (name servers) assigned to the specified domain.

2.2. dig Command (Linux/macOS)

The dig command, commonly used on Linux and macOS, provides more detailed information about DNS records.

Example:

The output includes a list of the authoritative name servers for the domain. Note that you may need to install dig if it’s not available by default (e.g., sudo apt install dnsutils on Ubuntu).

2.3. whois Command

The whois command provides domain registration information, including DNS servers, for many domains. The command is available on Linux/macOS by default and can be installed on Windows.

Example:

Look for the “Name Server” or “Domain Servers” section in the output to find the assigned DNS servers.

3. Use a DNS Management Interface

If you have access to your domain registrar or hosting provider’s control panel, you can check and manage the DNS settings directly.

3.1. Domain Registrar Dashboard

• Log in to your domain registrar account.
• Locate the DNS or “Nameservers” settings section.
• Here, you’ll see the DNS servers assigned to your domain. This is also where you can update the DNS servers if necessary.

3.2. Hosting Provider’s Control Panel

If your DNS records are managed through a hosting provider, log in to the hosting dashboard, navigate to DNS settings, and view the DNS servers there.

4. Check Google Admin Console (For Google Domains)

For domains registered through Google, you can view DNS servers in the Google Admin Console:

• Log in to Google Admin Console.
• Go to Domains > Manage domains.
• Here, you’ll see the assigned DNS servers, with the option to update them if needed.

5. Using Browser Extensions

Certain browser extensions, like DNS Lookup for Chrome or Firefox, allow you to quickly check DNS information without leaving your browser. These tools can be especially convenient if you frequently work with DNS records.

6. Troubleshooting DNS Issues

If you notice unexpected DNS servers, it could be a sign of a configuration issue:

• Check for Propagation Delays: DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate globally, so if you recently updated DNS servers, give it time.
• Verify Correct Setup with WHOIS: Sometimes, discrepancies between DNS records and WHOIS records indicate issues with domain setup or DNS propagation.
• Ensure DNSSEC Configuration: If DNSSEC is enabled, ensure that the records match your DNS provider to avoid lookup failures.

Conclusion

Checking the DNS servers assigned to a domain is easy with tools like nslookup, dig, or online DNS checkers. Regularly verifying your DNS settings helps ensure your site runs smoothly, as DNS servers are critical for domain accessibility.