What is a name server, and why are they necessary? - Knowledgebase / Routines / Handling nameservers - Support Portal | Registry Services

What is a name server, and why are they necessary?

Updated 18 May, 2020

A nameserver is a computer with software that stores and/or distribute zone files and receive and send queries directed to a given domain.

Nameservers are required to perform the translation of domain names to IP addresses, which makes the domain reachable by visitors.

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The Swedish Internet Foundation is an independent, business-driven and public-benefit organization. We work for an internet that contributes positively to people and society. We are responsible for the internet's Swedish top-level domain .se and manages the operation and administration of the top-level domain .nu. The revenue from our business finances a number of initiatives in order to enable people to use the internet in the best way, and to stimulate the sharing of knowledge and innovation with a focus on the internet.