How to Buy a DNS Domain and Point It to Your VPS IP: A Comprehensive Guide

Setting up a domain nameserver that can point to your VPS IP address can be a daunting task, but it is essential for a professional online presence. This guide will take you through the necessary steps, whether you are using MelbourneIT, GoDaddy, or another domain registrar of your choice. We will also explore the technical aspects of setting up your own DNS server on your VPS.

Choosing a Domain Registrar

There are many reputable domain registrars to choose from, with MelbourneIT and GoDaddy being two popular options. However, the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

MelbourneIT is known for its no hidden fees and clear policies, making it a favorite among many users. They also provide a wide range of services, including email solutions and cloud hosting, in addition to domain registration.

GoDaddy is another well-known option that has a simple and user-friendly interface. They offer a variety of domain extensions and can be a good choice if you are more interested in a one-stop solution for managing your online presence.

Buying a Domain Name

Whether you choose MelbourneIT, GoDaddy, or another registrar, the process of purchasing a domain name is relatively straightforward. First, visit the domain registrar's website and perform a domain check to ensure that the name you want is available.

Once you have confirmed the availability, you can proceed to purchase the domain. The cost varies depending on the .com, .net, or other extensions you choose. For example, a .com domain can cost around $12 to $25 per year, while a .net domain might be a bit more expensive.

Pointing Your Domain to Your VPS

After purchasing your domain, the next step is to configure your domain to point to your VPS IP address. This can be done in several ways, and the method you choose will depend on your registrar's administrative control panel.

Typically, you would go to the DNS management section of your domain registrar's control panel. You would need to create name servers or A records, depending on the registrar. Name servers are assigned by your VPS provider, while A records are direct IP address entries.

Option 1: Domain Registrar’s DNS Management Panel

Maintaining a DNS record with your domain registrar is the most common and simplest way to point your domain to your VPS. Most registrars provide an intuitive and user-friendly dashboard where you can manage your DNS records.

Create A Records: Add an A record to point your domain to your VPS’s IP address.

Step 1: Log in to your domain registrar’s control panel.

Step 2: Navigate to the DNS management section.

Step 3: Click on "Add New Record" or a similar option.

Step 4: Enter the name (e.g., www), select "A" as the record type, and enter your VPS’s IP address.

Option 2: Using Your VPS as a DNS Server

If you want more control and customization, you can run a DNS server on your VPS. This requires some technical know-how, but it can be a great solution for advanced users who need more flexibility.

Installing and Configuring Named

Chosen Software: The most common and efficient DNS server software is named (Berkeley Internet Name Domain).

Step 1: Log in to your VPS via SSH.

Step 2: Update your package list:

sudo apt-get update

Step 3: Install named:

sudo apt-get install bind9

Step 4: Configure named:

Open the file to define your zones:

sudo nano 

Add your zone entries:

zone "" {    type master;    file "";};

Step 5: Create a zone file:

sudo nano 

Add your DNS records, such as:

   IN      SOA      admin@ (                       2023100101      ; Serial                       86400            ; Refresh                       7200             ; Retry                       3600000          ; Expire                       86400 )          ; Minimum Ttl	NS   	www   A   192.168.1.254	

Step 6: Restart named:

sudo systemctl restart bind9

Step 7: Check the status of the service:

sudo systemctl status bind9

Conclusion

Pointing your DNS domain to your VPS IP address is a crucial step in establishing your online presence. Whether you choose to use a domain registrar's services or set up your own DNS server, understanding the process can help you achieve the outcomes you desire, such as better performance, security, and credibility. Remember, the key is to select a reputable domain registrar, set up your domain correctly, and maintain vigilance in your DNS security practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is it important to point my domain to my VPS IP address?

A: Pointing your domain to your VPS IP address allows you to manage your website, emails, and other online services from a single point, providing better control and maintenance capabilities.

Q: Can I point my domain to multiple IP addresses?

A: Yes, you can configure multiple A records for redundancy or load balancing. This is useful for ensuring high availability in case one IP address becomes unavailable.

Q: Is it safe to run a DNS server on my VPS?

A: Running a DNS server on your VPS can be safe if you follow best practices for security, such as strong passwords, regular updates, and firewalls. Ensure that you have a solid understanding of DNS management before making this setup.