What is the main function of a DNS server?

The primary function of a DNS server is to translate domain names into IP addresses. This process is essential because, while humans use memorable domain names such as www.example.com to access websites, computers communicate over the internet using IP addresses (such as 192.0.2.1). When a user enters a domain name into their web browser, the DNS server resolves that name to the corresponding IP address so that the browser can locate and connect to the web server hosting the requested site.

This translation ensures that users can easily navigate the internet without needing to remember numerical IP addresses. Additionally, DNS servers can cache the results of previous queries, speeding up the resolution process for frequently accessed domain names.

In contrast, options involving internet connectivity, firewall management, or network performance monitoring pertain to different networking functions and do not directly relate to the primary role of a DNS server. The DNS’s specific purpose is pivotal in ensuring seamless web navigation.