Recommendations for managing dedicated server DNS

Question

I've rented a dedicated server for several years with a number of domains. I've got a coding background so am comfortable with that side of the tech, but I hate that I still don't truly understand DNS settings.

Example: My provider (hostgator) just told me that my parent nameservers are not correctly configured as there is no A record for my primary nameserver.

What book/link/tutorial should I read to go from kind of understanding that comment to really understanding it & knowing exactly what I need to do to fix it rather than trial & error which is what I usually do.

Thanks

BTW I'm using a WHM/cpanel linux setup at hostgator but am eager to learn the fundamentals.

Answer 1

It sounds like you do not have a forward lookup (A record) specified for your nameserver. (IE. ns1.example.com)

O'Reilly's DNS and BIND book is quite good. The DNS-HOWTO has some great technical details. Searching the Internet will also uncover substantial details regarding DNS, as it is an old protocol.

DNS for Rocket Scientists is a book that is published on the Internet, which I love to use for reference.

Specific to Cpanel, there is various documentation regarding DNS on their Web site.

Finally, reading and knowing the RFCs is a great way to support your knowledge with the foundation of any Internet protocol.

Answer 2

Also note http://www.checkdns.net

You can fast-check your dns setup there.

Answer 3

You could also have a look at some of the tutorials on the easydns and dnsmadeasy websites, they probably show the essentials in an easy to digest format.