DNS (Domain Name Service) provides computer name - IP address mapping. This allows users to refer to computers by name, typically easier for humans to remember than IP addresses. Transport layer protocols require an IP address, not a computer name, and this is provided by DNS.

DNS is a critical service that is required for most networking applications to work properly. You'll notice in your IPV4 client configuration a setting for primary and secondary DNS servers.

Suppose we are setting up a corporate network on a floor of an office building. We have about 600 workstations and an Active Directory domain structure.

How are we going to provide our network with DNS services? In what circumstances would it be best to set up our own DNS server(s), and when should we rely on external services?

What are your thoughts about setting up this critical part of the network infrastructure.