Quick answer: DNS (Domain Name System) is the internet’s directory service — it translates a name you type, like example.com, into the IP address computers actually use to connect.
Why we do not type IP addresses
Names are easier for people to remember than long numeric addresses, especially with both IPv4 and IPv6 in use today. DNS handles that translation automatically, every time you open a link.
What a DNS lookup returns
A domain can publish several record types at once — an A record for its IPv4 address, an AAAA record for IPv6, MX records for mail, and more. See our DNS record types guide for what each one does.
Check any domain
Use DNS Lookup to see the current records a domain is publishing, and WHOIS Lookup to see who registered it.
Want to see this in practice? Check your own connection's IP, location and ISP.
Check my IP address