What does a DNS server do?

A DNS server plays a crucial role in the functionality of the internet by tying domain names to assigned IP addresses. This process, known as DNS resolution, allows users to access websites using human-readable addresses, like www.example.com, rather than numeric IP addresses such as 192.0.2.1. When a user types a domain name into their browser, the DNS server translates that name into its corresponding IP address, enabling the browser to locate and connect to the desired server hosting the website.

This functionality is essential for the user experience on the internet, as it simplifies the process of navigating online, avoiding the need to memorize complex numerical addresses. The efficiency of a DNS server is vital for the responsiveness and reliability of web services, making it a foundational component of the internet's infrastructure. Each time a request is made for a domain, the DNS server retrieves the necessary IP address, facilitating seamless communication between users and websites.