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Recursive vs Iterative DNS
Two strategies for resolving domain names through the DNS hierarchy
Domain Name
Record Type
A (IPv4)
AAAA (IPv6)
MX (Mail)
TXT
CNAME
NS
Animation
Slow
Normal
Fast
Instant
Resolve
DNS Result
Enter a domain and click Resolve
Recursive
Query is forwarded through a chain
Each server forwards the query to the next and waits. The answer cascades back.
0
Total Messages
0
Forward Hops
0
Servers Involved
0
Client Sends
Resolution Trace
Iterative
Resolver queries each server itself
Each server returns the best it knows. The resolver follows referrals and re-queries.
0
Total Messages
0
Round Trips
0
Servers Queried
0
Resolver Sends
Resolution Trace
DNS Query (forwarded)
Referral / "try this server"
Answer
CNAME Redirect