This is for you, who always wanted or needed to know how Internet names really work. The Internet Domain Name System (DNS) is a fascinating technology; almost all Internet applications make use of it. After reading this you will not suddenly have become a DNS expert, but you will have an understanding of how the DNS works and you should be able to distinguish a real DNS expert from a pretender.

Dear Experts,

This is not for you. For the sake of explaining principles we will often generalise and do this sometimes to the point where our explanations are not strictly correct in every last detail. The relevant Internet standards are where you find the details.