DNS Troubleshooting Guide: Common Issues and Solutions

DNS Troubleshooting Guide: Common Issues and Solutions

By Michael Turner

March 18, 2025 at 10:56 PM

DNS records can fail to save or function properly for several common reasons. Here's how to troubleshoot and fix these issues:

Placeholder Values

  • Replace gray placeholder text in Host and Data fields with actual values
  • Priority field is optional

Host Field Format Issues

  • Your domain name automatically appends after each Host value
  • Use @ in Host field when provider requires bare domain (yourdomain.com)
  • "Host already in use" means duplicate entries exist - modify one to resolve

Invalid IP or Hostname Errors

  • Ensure Data field format is correct
  • Remove any trailing dots
  • Verify IP address or hostname syntax

Conflicting Records

  1. Open Domains dashboard
  2. Select domain name
  3. Navigate to DNS Settings
  4. Review Custom Records
  5. Delete conflicting records
  6. Save changes
  7. Add new record
  8. Allow 24-72 hours for propagation

Priority Field Limitations

  • Only editable for MX or SRV records
  • Appears but inactive for other record types

AAAA Record Issues

  • Must use fully expanded IPv6 address
  • Example:
    • Incorrect: 2620:12a:8000::3
    • Correct: 2620:12a:8000:0:0:0:0:3

TXT and DMARC Length Limits

  • Maximum 255 characters per record
  • Split longer records into multiple strings
  • Use online DNS record splitting tools
  • Add each string separately

Record Saving Problems

  • Check for extra characters
  • Verify no periods at string ends
  • Ensure total length under 255 characters
  • Remove any formatting errors

Note: For specific DNS configuration assistance, contact your service provider or consult domain documentation.

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