Nameserver

Definition

A nameserver is a server that answers DNS queries for information about domain names.

How it works

"Nameserver" covers two different jobs. Authoritative nameservers publish the records for zones they are responsible for; recursive ones chase down answers for clients and cache the results. When you set nameservers at your registrar, you are choosing the authoritative servers the rest of the internet will consult about your domain.

Example: Changing a domain's nameserver delegation tells resolvers which authoritative service to ask about the zone.

Often confused: Every authoritative server is a nameserver, but your ISP's resolver is one too — same word, different role.

Related terms

• Authoritative nameserver
• Domain Name System (DNS)
• Domain registrar
• Recursive resolver
• Zone file

Learn more from Bitfoo

• Plan a controlled DNS cutover

Sources

• IETF RFC 1034: Domain Names — Concepts and Facilities
• ICANN Acronyms and Terms

Last reviewed 2026-07-19.