The DNS (Domain Name System) is a system that converts domain names into IP addresses, thereby enabling websites to be accessed via their names.
Because the Domain Name System is one of the most critical services in any data network, RWTH operates it centrally on the backbone with full physical redundancy.
The DNS at RWTH includes the following functions:

• Central service for linking unique names to Internet addresses (IPv4/IPv6) 
• Resource records for different functionalities
• Data is provided by DNS servers
• The DNS is organized in a tree structure (zones/subdomains) with a globally distributed root zone
• Entries are maintained by the hostmaster (hostmaster@rwth-aachen.de)
• The service is specified via Requests for Comments

The use of anycast (addressing and routing method) adds logical redundancy. Here the computers themselves are assigned all common service addresses (IPv4/IPv6).
The information is defined by resource records.

To achieve an administrative and logical subdivision within a domain (e.g. rwth-aachen.de), zones/subdomains are used.

Who is allowed to access the RWTH DNS?

Registered network contact persons and IT administrators can view zones/subdomains and existing DNS entries for their own organization and create entries.
The DNS backend is managed by the IT Center.

How do I access the RWTH DNS?

Via the DNS-Admin, registered network contact persons can either make entries for the entrusted zone/subdomain themselves or request an entry by sending an informal e-mail to hostmaster@rwth-aachen.de.