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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/tech-dns-iterative-referral

What may a DNS resolver receive when a server lacks the final answer?

It may receive a referral to another name server.

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  1. A replacement MAC address
  2. A referral to another name server ✔
  3. A permanent HTTP redirect

Why: A resolver asks name servers for DNS information. A server can return the desired record or point the resolver toward another server, allowing the lookup to continue through the hierarchy.

Huh, didn't know that: Following referrals one server at a time is called iterative resolution.

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DNS asked around because it could not put a name to the address.
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References

Answer: A referral to another name server. A resolver asks name servers for DNS information. A server can return the desired record or point the resolver toward another server, allowing the lookup to continue through the hierarchy.

  1. RFC 1035: Domain Names, Implementation and Specification www.rfc-editor.org/rfc/rfc1035.html
    the resolver either receives the desired information or a referral to another name server.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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