This article explains how to use the DIG (Domain Information Groper) command, an essential tool for executing DNS queries. It helps users troubleshoot issues, verify DNS configurations, and retrieve domain-specific information. Here’s a comprehensive guide on using the DIG command effectively.
DIG allows you to perform various DNS queries, including:
- A Record: Retrieves the IP address of a domain.
- TXT Record: Displays text annotations related to the domain.
- MX Record: Identifies the mail exchange servers for a domain.
- NS Record: Lists the name servers for a domain.
How to Run the DIG Command
- Open Your SSH Client:
Access your hosting account or any system with a terminal interface. If you’re unfamiliar with SSH, refer to your hosting provider’s documentation on connecting via SSH. - Run the Command:
- Use the basic syntax: dig domain.tld
Replace ‘domain.tld’ with the domain name you want to query.
- Use the basic syntax: dig domain.tld
Understanding DIG Output
Here’s an example output for dig cchostingdemos.com:
; <<>> DiG 9.11.4 <<>> cchostingdemos.com
;; global options: +cmd
;; Got answer:
;; ->>HEADER<<- opcode: QUERY, status: NOERROR, id: 52628
;; QUESTION SECTION:
;cchostingdemos.com. IN A
;; ANSWER SECTION:
cchostingdemos.com. 300 IN A 104.21.69.5
cchostingdemos.com. 300 IN A 172.67.202.37
;; Query time: 7 msec
;; SERVER: 198.58.107.5#53
;; MSG SIZE rcvd: 79
- Header Section: Contains technical details about the query and response, including the status (e.g., NOERROR for successful responses).
- Question Section: Shows the query sent to the DNS server.
- Answer Section: Displays the domain’s IP addresses.
- Query Statistics: Provides information like query time and server details.
Quick DIG commands you should know:
- Get Only the Answer:
dig domain.tld +short - Retrieve A Record:
dig domain.tld A +noall +answer - List Mail Servers (MX Records):
dig domain.tld MX +noall +answer - Get Name Servers (NS Records):
dig domain.tld NS +noall +answer - Fetch All Records:
dig domain.tld ANY +noall +answer - Query a Specific Name Server:
dig A domain.tld @ns1.yourhost.com +short - Trace the DNS Path:
dig domain.tld +trace
The DIG command is a versatile and powerful tool for DNS management. These commands help troubleshoot DNS issues, analyze configurations, and gather detailed domain information.
Mastering the DIG command simplifies DNS-related tasks and enhances your ability to manage domains efficiently. Do not hesitate to contact our support staff if you require assistance.
Read Also: How to Test DNS with Dig and nslookup