DNS DNAME (Delegation Name) Record

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DNS DNAME

A DNS DNAME (Delegation Name) record is a less commonly used type of DNS record that allows for the redirection of an entire subtree of a domain to another domain. It’s similar to a CNAME record, but it can apply to multiple subdomains under the delegated domain rather than just a single alias.

How a DNAME Record Works:

A DNAME record allows you to redirect all subdomains of a domain to another domain, making it simpler to delegate large sections of a domain space.

For example, if you create a DNAME record for sub.example.com pointing to otherdomain.com, then all subdomains under sub.example.com will automatically be redirected to otherdomain.com.

Example:

Record Type: DNAME

Hostname: sub.example.com

Value: otherdomain.com

✅ This would cause the following mappings:

foo.sub.example.com → foo.otherdomain.com

bar.sub.example.com → bar.otherdomain.com

This redirection applies to all subdomains under sub.example.com.

DNAME vs. CNAME Records:

FeatureCNAME RecordDNAME Record

ScopeMaps a single domain to another domainMaps an entire subtree of domains to another domain

Applies toOnly the specified domainAll subdomains under the specified domain

UsagePoint individual domain names to another domainPoint an entire hierarchy of subdomains to another domain

LimitationsCannot be used on root domainCannot be used on root domain, can affect many subdomains

When to Use a DNAME Record:

Subdomain Redirection:
Use a DNAME record when you want to apply redirection to multiple subdomains at once.

Domain Migration:
If you're migrating an entire subtree of your domain (e.g., from example.com to newdomain.com), a DNAME record can help simplify the process.

Important Notes:

Not widely supported by all DNS resolvers, as it’s a less common feature compared to CNAME records.

Unlike CNAME, DNAME can affect entire branches of your domain.