What is managed DNS?
Managed DNS describes when a third party hosts and optimizes DNS servers and records to create a more secure and reliable DNS setup.
Within managed DNS systems, the third-party provider takes care of all the technical aspects of setting up, maintaining, and securing DNS servers on the client’s behalf. Multiple servers are often used to host the business DNS records, allowing companies to have all their DNS information stored offsite.
Using managed DNS provider software, these companies are able to authenticate visitors, secure emails being sent via mail exchanges, and maintain all of an organization’s DNS records. Many providers also offer complementary services like domain registration.
Basic elements of managed DNS
As DNS records are maintained by another business, there are several aspects to managed DNS that self-managed systems don’t have, such as centralized management dashboards the third-party uses to share information with the business. But generally, managed DNS operates in a similar way to self-managed DNS, with elements including:
- DNS servers. The hosting information is stored on the server. In a managed system, these are always kept offsite, away from the businesses storing information, while self-managed systems can use either onsite or offsite servers.
- DNS records. The DNS records are the vital pieces of information that connect the domain name with the IP address that it should point to. These records are stored on the DNS servers to help connect users to the right place when they search for a URL or use an email exchange.
- Resolvers. A resolver is a program that takes the record information from the DNS server and passes it to the user. These queries are the connecting points between the request to be taken somewhere online and the request being fulfilled.
Benefits of managed DNS
Some businesses may choose to take care of their own DNS records, but for those that opt for managed DNS, there are a number of significant benefits, such as:
- Enhanced security features. Cybercriminals often attempt to gain access to business networks via direct denial of service (DDoS) attacks, which can take down company websites and even access to internal mail systems. When using a managed DNS service provider, additional security features that protect businesses from these attacks are often implemented. Due to the large number of clients, these providers invest heavily in security enhancements that can be cost-prohibitive in self-managed DNS systems.
- Greater performance optimization. For global businesses, online traffic can come from anywhere in the world. Users expect optimal site performance, like fast load times, once they try to navigate to a URL. Managed DNS servers are usually the best quality due to investments made by the service provider, making speed a priority and ensuring that websites continue to perform at the highest level.
- More cost effective solutions. It’s entirely possible for a business to manage their own DNS system. But buying and maintaining the best t servers and ensuring adequate, fully-trained staff are on-hand is costly. A managed DNS system is often the cheapest long-term solution for businesses with both simple and complex DNS needs.
- Scalability as the business grows. As companies grow, so too do their technological requirements. A managed DNS service provider likely works with businesses of all sizes, and so is better prepared for the challenges that come with adding new systems to the DNS settings. With this expertise, it makes growth much less demanding, with minimal service interruptions for both the internal team and customers.
- Expert technical support. Using a third-party provider makes certain that a business can reach the right service agents if they need a quick hand. This can be much cheaper than hiring dedicated IT specialists with DNS skills.
Best practices for managed DNS
When working with a third-party vendor to manage DNS settings, several best practices should be taken into account.
- Consolidating DNS providers. For organizations with a large number of DNS records to manage, there’s a temptation to work with several vendors at one time. But consolidating into one or two companies makes management easier, particularly with one primary company and a second as a backup should servers fail at the main provider.
- Setting up internal monitoring. While third-party vendors might provide dashboard access to monitor for DNS changes, an internal system that also tracks this information helps organizations. If changes need to be made, businesses can tell the DNS provider, which can assist in maintaining high levels of connectivity and less frequent downtime.
- Mapping all DNS connections. A good understanding of all DNS records the business has is essential for making sure no records are left vulnerable to security breaches. This is also important if moving to a different managed DNS provider or bringing DNS management in-house.
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