# DNS

/ˌdiˌɛˈnɛs/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dns
Updated: 2026-05-10

## Definition

Stands for Domain Name System. It is the system that connects a website's name to its actual address on the internet. It works like a phone book for computers, turning names like 'google.com' into numbers.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Domain Name System. A hierarchical and decentralized naming system for computers, services, or other resources connected to the internet or a private network. It translates human-readable domain names into the numerical IP addresses required for locating and identifying computer services and devices.

## Examples

- The website is down because of a DNS error.
- When you type a URL into your browser, the DNS server looks up the corresponding IP address to load the page.
- Network administrators often configure secondary DNS servers to ensure that domain name resolution remains functional even if the primary server experiences a hardware failure or a cyberattack.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'DNS server', 'DNS record', or 'DNS settings'.

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