Each DNS record type has a different purpose. Choosing the right one matters because DNS is not one generic setting; it is a collection of record types used for different services.
- A points a hostname to an IPv4 address.
- AAAA points a hostname to an IPv6 address.
- CNAME makes one hostname follow another hostname.
- MX tells the internet which mail servers accept email for a domain.
- TXT stores text values often used for verification and mail policies such as SPF.
- SRV advertises the location of specific services that use host, port, priority, and weight information.
- TLSA publishes certificate-related data for services that use DANE.
If you are following instructions from a third-party provider, use the record type they specify. Using the wrong type can break verification, mail delivery, or service discovery.