Creating A DNS Zone In Windows Server 2003

A DNS server maps hostnames to IP addresses for DNS clients. These clients query their assigned DNS servers when they need to resolve a hostname. A DNS zone stores the records for a specific namespace. A forward lookup zone map hostnames to IP addresses where as a reverse lookup zone maps IP addresses to hostnames.

DNS can be installed using different methods. You can install it from the Manage Your Server window or you can use the Add or Remove Program applet within the Control Panel. There no real requirements for installing DNS, other than the fact that you must be running Windows Server 2003 (or Windows 2000).

You can install DNS and create a forward lookup zone using the steps listed below:

1. 1. Begin by selecting the DNS server in the left pane of the DNS Management console.
2. 2. Click Configure a DNS Server from the Action menu.
3. 3. The Configure a DNS Server Wizard will appear. Click Next to continue.
4. 4. Verify that Create a forward lookup zone (recommended for small networks) is selected. If you are configuring DNS for a large network, select the second option. Click Next.
5. 5. Verify that This server maintains the zone is selected. If the zone is hosted by an ISP, select the second option. Click Next to continue.
6. 6. Type in the name of the new zone. Click Next.
7. 7. Verify the name and location of the zone file. Click Next.
8. 8. Verify that the Do not allow dynamic updates is selected. Select the second option to enable dynamic updates. Secure updates are only available for Active Directory-integrated zones. Click Next.
9. 9. Type in the IP address of the DNS server that this DNS server should forward queries to. Select the second option if queries should not be forwarded to another DNS server. Click Next.
10. 10. Review the summary of settings configured. Click Finish.
11. 11. The new zone will appear in the right pane of the DNS Management console.

Source