PTR

Pointer Record

Maps an IP address to a domain name (reverse DNS)

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About

The PTR (Pointer) record is used for reverse DNS lookups - mapping an IP address back to a domain name. This is the opposite of A and AAAA records, which map domain names to IP addresses.

PTR records are stored in special reverse lookup zones under in-addr.arpa (IPv4) or ip6.arpa (IPv6). The IP address is reversed in the record name. For example, 192.0.2.1 becomes 1.2.0.192.in-addr.arpa.

Reverse DNS is important for email deliverability (mail servers check PTR records), security logging, and network troubleshooting. PTR records are typically managed by your hosting provider or ISP, as they control the IP address allocation.

Format & Example

Record Format
1.2.0.192.in-addr.arpa. IN PTR hostname.domain.com.
Example
34.216.184.93.in-addr.arpa. 3600 IN PTR example.com.

The IP address 93.184.216.34 reverse-resolves to example.com.

Common Uses

  • Email server identification (required for good deliverability)
  • Security logging and auditing
  • Network troubleshooting
  • Verifying server identity

Best Practices & Tips

  • PTR records are managed by whoever controls the IP address block
  • Contact your hosting provider or ISP to set PTR records
  • PTR should match the server's forward DNS (A record)
  • Essential for mail servers to avoid spam filtering

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