DNS Server

Updated April 8, 2011

Domain Name System (DNS) is the name resolution protocol for TCP/IP networks, such as the Internet. Client computers query a DNS server to resolve memorable, alphanumeric DNS names to the IP addresses that computers use to communicate with each other. See more in the DNS Server Overview for Windows Server 2008.

Looking for DNS content about Windows Server 2003? See DNS on the Networking TechCenter.

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DNS in Small Networks Step by Step
Download only. This guide helps you implement Domain Name System (DNS) on the Windows Server 2008 operating system in a small network.
Configure a DNS Server to Use Forwarders
A forwarder is a DNS server on a network that is used to send DNS queries for external DNS names to DNS servers outside your network.
Active Directory Domain Services and DNS Server Migration Guide
Best practices for migration of an AD DS server and DNS Server from old hardware running Windows Server 2003 or Windows Server 2008 to new hardware running Windows Server 2008 R2.
Forum thread: DNS - IPv6 registering but not IPv4
Query resolved: When running servers on both Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows Server 2003 R2 with dynamic update, some Windows Vista clients only register in IPv6.

DNS Server in the Windows Server 2008 Technical Library

Product Evaluation

What's New in DNS in Windows Server 2008
Improvements include background zone loading, support for IPv6 and read-only domain controllers (RODCs), global single names, and global query block list

Operations

DNS Server Operations Guide: In-depth procedures about how to perform key tasks, including managing clients and servers, managing and adding zones, and securing your infrastructure.
System Center Operations Manager 2007 Catalog: Includes the DNS management pack for Windows 2000 Server, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Server 2008.

Technical Reference

DNS Technical Reference: Comprehensive reference about Microsoft DNS including what it is, how it works, and DNS tools and registry settings.

Deployment

Secure DNS Deployment Guide: Detailed guidance for configuring and deploying a secure DNS infrastructure in Windows Server 2008 R2, including DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC).
Best Practices Analyzer for Domain Name System: For use with the Best Practices Analyzer tool in Windows Server 2008 R2. Get the rules update for DNS BPA on the Microsoft Download Center.

Troubleshooting

DNS Installed Help: Perform task with the help of checklists and procedures. Example tasks include configuring DNS client settings, migrating a DNS server, and creating a reverse lookup zone.
Troubleshoot DNS Events and Errors: Look up specific event and error codes, and then see how to correct the errors.

Community

TechNet forum: Windows Server Network Infrastructure Servers
TechNet forum: Windows Server Directory Services
Blog: WSiX Network Connection

Technical Reference

DNS Technical Reference
Learn what DNS is, how DNS works, and what specific DNS tools and settings do.
User Interface: DNS Server

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DNS Server

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DNS Server in the Windows Server 2008 Technical Library

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