Every time you purchase a domain name or obtain a web hosting deal, registration requires selection of two domain nameservers. Most people, especially if new to dedicated hosting, may not have a clue concerning what a namerserver is and how it functions. What does a nameserver do and is it something important that needs to be examined?

You Need to be Found

In order for a domain name to be resolved - be seen and located on the World Wide Web - a correct nameserver setting has to be established for a domain name. Without application of the correct settings no one will be able to see the site when typing in the URL. The nameserver functions as a router leading people to the dedicated server where your website resides. Whenever someone types in the site URL, a request to view it is sent to the nameserver that, in turn, routes the person's request to the correct IP address that a the dedicated hosting company has supplied.

Here Comes the DNS

Once the request reaches the nameserver, the DNS (Domain Name Server) takes over directing the website viewing request to the account you have with the host. After the request has been successfully routed, the site will load in the requester's browser. The entire process, from visitor request to site viewing, takes but a few seconds to complete when everything functions properly.

Nameservers Assigned at Account Opening

Whenever a user opens up a dedicated hosting account, the hosting company will supply the nameserver information in the welcoming message. Make sure to examine the entire message to locate the necessary information.

Assign the Nameservers

After the correct nameserver information is located, log onto the registrar site where the domain name was purchased. Most registrar's have simple easy-to-follow steps for assigning nameservers to the selected domain name. In the event there is no clear method for singing in and assigning the nameservers, contact the registrar for direct help. However, once logged in, look for a link provided that allows nameserver changes. Once the page loads, the default nameservers listed can be seen. The function for these default nameservers is typically to direct people to a "parked page." This temporary web page is displayed when a URL is requested when there is no content for this particular domain. These default namneservers need to be replaced with the ones supplied by your dedicated hosting company. There will be two - a primary and secondary nameserver.

Updating Nameservers Can Take Time

Updating a change in nameservers may take as little as 15 minutes to as much as 72 hours. This is dependent upon the domain status. The only way to know when the site is viewable is when it does go live. At the time when updating domain nameservers, correct any technical information about the domain if necessary. This is typically found where the dedicated hosting information is located. Personal contact information can be inserted in this area as well.

Unless a domain name needs to be moved frequently, in the event something compels changing hosts, webmasters will have little activity concerning nameservers. But, it is helpful to understand nameserver changes and how they affect the functions of the dedicated server where a domain resides in the event any changes are contemplated.