DNS Resolution Process Visualization

Interactive step-by-step demonstration of how DNS queries are resolved from client to authoritative nameserver. Perfect for understanding network security analysis fundamentals.

By Mohamed Habib JaouadiJanuary 31, 2025
Post Related
#dns
#networking
#security
#analysis
#resolution
#nameservers

Follow the complete DNS resolution process interactively, from initial client request through recursive resolvers to authoritative nameservers. This visualization helps security professionals understand each step of DNS queries for network analysis and monitoring.

Key Learning Points

  • Complete Resolution Chain: See how DNS queries traverse from client through stub resolver, recursive resolver, root nameservers, TLD servers, and finally to authoritative nameservers
  • Query Types: Understand the difference between A, NS, and other DNS record queries
  • Security Implications: Learn what information is logged at each step and how to monitor for suspicious patterns
  • Caching Behavior: Observe how DNS responses are cached at multiple levels to improve performance

Use Cases for Security Analysis

  • Traffic Analysis: Understanding normal DNS patterns vs. suspicious behavior
  • DNS Tunneling Detection: Recognizing abnormal query patterns that might indicate data exfiltration
  • Network Monitoring: Knowing which servers and logs to monitor for comprehensive DNS visibility
  • Incident Response: Tracing DNS queries during security investigations

This interactive visualization complements the DNS Security Analysis Series by providing hands-on experience with the concepts covered in the written material.

Interactive DNS Resolution Network Graph
Resolving: google.com
Client ApplicationStub ResolverRecursive ResolverRoot Nameserver198.41.0.4TLD Nameserver192.33.14.30Authoritative NS216.239.32.10

Step 1: User Request

User types google.com in browser

Resolution Timeline

1
User Request
Client Application
2
DNS Query Initiated
Stub Resolver
3
Recursive Query
Recursive Resolver
4
Root Server Query
Root Nameserver
5
TLD Server Query
TLD Nameserver
6
Authoritative Query
Authoritative NS
7
Response Chain
Client Application

Query Types

  • A - IPv4 address lookup
  • NS - Nameserver delegation
  • • Recursive resolution process

Caching

  • • Responses cached at each level
  • • TTL determines cache duration
  • • Reduces subsequent query time

Security Notes

  • • Each step creates log entries
  • • Queries reveal communication intent
  • • Monitor for suspicious patterns