Name Resolution

  • Article

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Name resolution

By default, Windows Server 2003 operating systems use name resolution to translate numerical IP addresses, which are necessary for TCP/IP communications, to computer names, which are easier for users to remember and use than 32-bit IP addresses. With name resolution, you can assign computer names to the IP addresses of the source and destination hosts, and then use the computer name to contact the hosts, rather than using the 32-bit IP addresses. If you use a computer name as an IP alias, ensure that the name is unique and that it resolves to the correct IP address.

There are two types of names to resolve:

  • Host names

    Host names are used by programs that use the Windows Sockets programming interface, such as Web browsers. For more information, see Host name resolution.

  • NetBIOS names

    NetBIOS names are used by network programs or services that use the NetBIOS programming interface, such as Client for Microsoft Networks and File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks. For more information, see NetBIOS name resolution.