What is the primary function of DNS in a network?

The primary function of DNS (Domain Name System) in a network is to convert domain names into IP addresses. When a user enters a website's URL into a web browser, the browser needs to locate the corresponding server using its IP address. DNS acts as a directory that matches human-readable domain names, such as www.example.com, with the numeric IP addresses required for routing data across the Internet. This process allows users to access websites using easy-to-remember names rather than complex numeric addresses.

The conversion of domain names to IP addresses is crucial because it simplifies web navigation for users while maintaining the technical architecture necessary for network communication. This hierarchical system also supports additional functions, such as load balancing and redundancy, by allowing multiple domain names to map to the same IP address or vice versa. Overall, the ability of DNS to resolve domain names into IP addresses ensures that users can efficiently and effectively access online resources.