The Domain Name System (DNS) is the system created to map domain names to IP addresses, and is largely responsible for the widespread popularity of the Internet due to the convenience it offers in calling system resources by an easily recognizable name rather than a cryptic number. Given the critical nature of this technology for ensuring smooth operation of Internet-based resources such as Web and mail servers, ita (TM)s imperative that users fully understand key configuration, management and security principles.

Pro DNS and BIND guides readers through the often challenging array of features surrounding DNS with a special focus on the Worlda (TM)s most diffuse DNS implementation, BIND (Berkeley Internet Name Domain). Readers will learn not only about key DNS concepts, but also how to effectively install, configure, deploy and manage BIND in enterprise environments.

Pro DNS and BIND 10 guides you through the challenging array of features surrounding DNS with a special focus on the latest release of BIND, the world's most popular DNS implementation. This book unravels the mysteries of DNS, offering insight into origins, evolution, and key concepts like domain names and zone files. This book focuses on running DNS systems based on BIND 10, the first stable release that includes support for the latest DNSSEC standards. Whether you administer a DNS system, are thinking about running one, or you simply want to understand the DNS system, then this book for you. Pro DNS and BIND 10 starts with simple concepts, then moves on to full security-aware DNSSEC configurations. Various features, parameters, and Resource Records are described and illustrated with examples. The book contains a complete reference to zone files, Resource Records, and BIND's configuration file parameters. You can treat the book as a simple paint-by-numbers guide to everything from a simple caching DNS to the most complex secure DNS (DNSSEC) implementation.Background information is included for when you need to know what to do and why you have to do it, and so that you can modify processes to meet your unique needs. What you'll learn * Get an introduction to DNS, zone files, Resource Records, DNS Operators, Types, and IPv6 * How to install and use BIND, common DNS Tasks, DNS diagnostics/tools, secure configurations and more * How to secure a DNS for zone transfer or dynamic update * What DNSSEC is and how to use it * How to use the definitive BIND Configuration and Zone File References * How to use the new BIND APIs and Resolver Libraries * How to use DNS Messages/Records and Active Directory Who this book is for This book is for DNS and system administrators, especially in large corporations, and for Government agency security experts. It's also for IT management, domain registrars, registry operators, and security auditors.Table of ContentsChapter 1, An Introduction to DNS Chapter 2, Zone Files and Resource Records Chapter 3, DNS Operations Chapter 4, DNS Types Chapter 5, DNS and IPv6 Chapter 6, Installing BIND Chapter 7, BIND Type Samples Chapter 8, Common DNS Tasks Chapter 9, DNS Diagnostics and Tools Chapter 10, DNS Secure Configurations Chapter 11, DNSSEC Chapter 12, BIND Configuration Reference Chapter 13, Zone File Reference Chapter 14, DNS Messages and Records Chapter 15 DNS and Active Directory Appendix A, Domain Name Registration Appendix B, DNS RFCs Appendix C Tools and Utilities