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DS Lookup

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Use the DS lookup to inspect the key tags, algorithms, and digests that anchor your zone to the DNSSEC trust chain. Understanding these values helps verify a successful key-signing-key rollover and diagnose validation failures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DS record?
A DS (Delegation Signer) record links a child zone's DNSKEY to the parent zone, creating the DNSSEC chain of trust.
How do DS and DNSKEY records relate?
Each DS digest references a key-signing DNSKEY. Validators compare the digest to ensure they retrieved the correct DNSKEY set.
Which digest algorithm should I publish?
Digest type 2 (SHA-256) works for every modern resolver, while digest type 4 (SHA-384) adds strength when your parent zone supports it.
Why might validators reject my DS record?
If the digest no longer matches the active key-signing key, resolvers mark the zone insecure. Update the DS after rolling keys or changing algorithms.
When should I rotate DS records?
Rotate DS entries whenever you perform a KSK rollover or migrate to a new signing provider. Publish the new digest before retiring the old key.
Why are there multiple DS records for a zone?
Multiple DS records are common during key rollovers or when serving different algorithms so validators can trust either key during the transition.