How to Create a Host Record in Windows Server 2012: A Guide for Devs

As a developer, you might need to create a host record on your Windows Server 2012 to allow other computers to access your server through a domain name rather than an IP address. This guide will walk you through the steps of creating a host record in a relaxed and easy-to-understand language, so you can do it yourself without any hassle.

Step 1: Accessing the DNS Manager

The first step in creating a host record in Windows Server 2012 is to access the DNS Manager. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the Start menu and click on Administrative Tools.
2. Click on DNS to open the DNS Manager.
3. Expand the server name and click on Forward Lookup Zones.
4. Right-click on the zone where you want to create the host record and select New Host (A or AAAA).

You should now see the New Host window.

Step 2: Creating the Host Record

The next step is to create the host record itself by entering the required information. Fill in the following fields:

Once you have filled in the required information, click Add Host to create the host record.

Step 3: Verifying the Host Record

After creating the host record, you should verify that it has been added correctly. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the host record you just created and select Properties.
2. Check that the name and IP address you entered are correct.
3. Click on the Name Servers tab and verify that your server is listed as an authoritative name server.

If everything looks good, congratulations! You have successfully created a host record in Windows Server 2012.

FAQ

1. What is a host record?

A host record is a DNS record that maps a domain name to an IP address. It allows computers to access servers through a domain name rather than an IP address, which is easier to remember and more human-readable.

2. Why do I need to create a host record?

You need to create a host record if you want other computers to access your server through a domain name. Without a host record, they would need to use your server’s IP address, which can be difficult to remember and manage.

3. Can I create multiple host records for the same server?

Yes, you can create multiple host records that point to the same IP address. This can be useful if you want to create multiple domain names that point to the same server.

4. Can I edit or delete a host record after it has been created?

Yes, you can edit or delete a host record by right-clicking on it in the DNS Manager and selecting Properties or Delete. However, be careful when editing or deleting host records, as it can cause issues with your server’s DNS settings.