Domains Basics

1. What is a Domain Name?

Domain Name is a human-readable address used to identify and locate websites on the internet. It serves as a website's address, making it easier for users to remember and access.

For example, aapanel.com is a domain name. A domain consists of multiple parts, typically including Top-Level Domain (TLD) (e.g. .com, .org) and Second-Level Domain (e.g. aapanel).

2. Structure of a Domain Name

• Top-Level Domain (TLD): The last part of the domain, (e.g. .com in aapanel.com).

• Second-Level Domain: The part before the TLD, (e.g. aapanel in aapanel.com).

• Subdomain: The part before the second-level domain, (e.g. www in www.aapanel.com).

3. What Are DNS Records?

DNS (Domain Name System) records are entries stored in the DNS database that specify how a domain should resolve to a server or service. Common DNS record types include:

• A Record: Maps a domain to an IPv4 address (e.g. aapanel.com --> 123.123.123.123).

• AAAA Record: Maps a domain to an IPv6 address (e.g. aapanel.com --> 1234:5678:90ab:cdef:1234:5678:90ab:cdef).

• CNAME Record: Points a domain to another domain, which then provides the IP address (e.g. www.aapanel.com --> aapanel.com).

• MX Record: Specifies mail server addresses (e.g. for mail.aapanel.com).

• TXT Record: Stores arbitrary text, often used for verification (e.g. SPF, DKIM).

4. FAQs

• Q: How long does DNS propagation take?
  A: Typically, it takes a few minutes to several hours, with a maximum of 48 hours.

• Q: How can I check a domain’s DNS records?
  A1: Use command-line tools like nslookup or dig (e.g. dig aapanel.com).

  A2: Use online tools like whatsmydns.

• Q: Why can’t I access my domain?
  A: Possible reasons include incorrect DNS settings or unresolved domain propagation. Verify your DNS records (e.g. ensure the A record for aapanel.com points to the correct server IP).