How do I create a DNS server? On Windows Server

Creating a DNS (Domain Name System) server on Windows Server is an essential task for managing network resources and ensuring that users can reach websites and services efficiently. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up a DNS server on Windows Server, complete with necessary configurations and code snippets.

Step 1: Install the DNS Server Role

To start, you need to install the DNS Server role on your Windows Server. Follow these steps:

1. Open Server Manager from the Start menu.
2. Click on Manage and select Add Roles and Features.
3. In the Add Roles and Features Wizard, click Next until you reach the Server Roles section.
4. Check the box for DNS Server and click Next.
5. Complete the wizard by clicking Install.

Step 2: Configure the DNS Server

Once the installation is complete, it’s time to configure your DNS server:

1. In Server Manager, click on Tools and then select DNS to open the DNS Manager.
2. Right-click on your server’s name in the left pane and choose Configure a DNS Server.
3. Follow the Configuration Wizard:
   • Select Configuration Type: Choose whether you want to create a new zone or integrate with an existing one.
   • Zone Type: For most cases, select Primary zone. This zone is where your server will store DNS records.
   • Zone Name: Enter your desired domain name (e.g., example.com).
   • Dynamic Update: Choose whether you want to allow dynamic updates.

Step 3: Add DNS Records

With the DNS zone created, you can now add DNS records:

1. In the DNS Manager, expand your server’s node and find your newly created zone.
2. Right-click on the zone and select New Host (A or AAAA).
3. Fill in the details:
   • Name: The hostname (e.g., www or leave it blank for the root).
   • IP Address: The IP address associated with the hostname.
4. Click Add Host to save the record.

Example Code to Add a DNS Record via PowerShell

Add-DnsServerResourceRecordA -Name "www" -IPv4Address "192.168.1.10" -ZoneName "example.com"

This command creates an A record for www.example.com pointing to 192.168.1.10.

Step 4: Configure Forwarders

To enable your DNS server to resolve external domains, configure DNS forwarders:

1. Right-click on your server name in the DNS Manager and choose Properties.
2. Navigate to the Forwarders tab.
3. Click Edit, then add the IP addresses of external DNS servers (e.g., Google DNS at 8.8.8.8).
4. Click OK to save your changes.

Step 5: Test Your DNS Server

To ensure everything is working correctly, use the nslookup command to test your DNS server:

1. Open Command Prompt.
2. Type the following command:

   nslookup www.example.com

If your configuration is correct, you should see the IP address you assigned to the host.