Geo DNS Result Checker Tool
Geo DNS is a geographic load balancing technique that resolves domains to different IP addresses based on the user's physical location. It is used to minimize latency and ensure content delivery from the closest server.
Test your geographic steering and CDN routing. Verify that users in different regions are resolved to the correct server IP addresses instantly.
Type a domain to check DNS records.
Understanding GeoDNS and Traffic Steering
GeoDNS (Geographic Domain Name System) is a routing technique that directs users to specific servers based on their physical location. Unlike traditional DNS, which returns the same IP address to everyone, GeoDNS allows a domain to respond with different IP addresses depending on the region from which the query originated.
This technology is essential for modern Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), streaming services, and multi-region applications. By serving content from the server closest to the user, GeoDNS significantly reduces latency, improves load times, and allows for regional content differentiation.
How Geographic Routing Works
Query Origin Analysis
When a user's resolver requests your domain, the GeoDNS provider analyzes the resolver's IP address (and often the client's subnet via EDNS-Client-Subnet) to determine where the user is located. It then maps this location to the nearest predefined server cluster.
Latency Optimization
The primary goal is the "shortest path." If a user in Singapore queries your domain, a GeoDNS setup will return the IP of an Asian data center, while a user in New York might be directed to a US-East server, effectively slashing hundreds of milliseconds off the response time.
Anycast DNS: The Seamless Switch
Many elite DNS providers use Anycast networks. In an Anycast configuration, the same IP address is announced from multiple data centers worldwide. The internet's routing protocol (BGP) naturally guides the user's request to the "topologically" closest node.
GeoDNS adds a second layer of intelligence on top of this. While Anycast gets the user to the closest DNS server, GeoDNS ensures that the DNS server provides the IP for the closest Web server. Together, they create a global infrastructure that feels local to every user.
Critical Use Cases for GeoDNS
CDN Infrastructure
Directing users to edge nodes for fast static asset delivery. Essential for high-traffic media sites. Monitor your edge latency with our DNS Propagation tool.
Load Balancing
Distributing traffic across multiple data centers to handle massive spikes. Ensure your A/AAAA records are correctly load-balanced.
Content Localization
Serving region-specific content, language variations, or complying with local regulations like GDPR.
High Availability
If one region fails, GeoDNS can instantly reroute users to the next closest healthy server cluster.
GeoDNS FAQ
How do I test if my GeoDNS is working?
Use our Geo DNS Result tool to query your domain from resolvers located in different continents. If the results show different IP addresses for North America, Europe, and Asia, your GeoDNS steering is active and functioning.
Is GeoDNS different from a CDN?
Yes. A CDN (Content Delivery Network) is a collection of servers that store and serve your files. GeoDNS is the "switchboard" that tells the user"s browser which of those CDN servers to connect to.
What is EDNS-Client-Subnet?
ECS (EDNS-Client-Subnet) is a DNS extension that allows a resolver to pass part of the user's IP address to the DNS server. This makes GeoDNS much more accurate, as it can pinpoint the user's location rather than just the location of their ISP's resolver.
Audit Your Global Performance
In an increasingly global digital economy, milliseconds matter. A well-tuned GeoDNS setup can be the difference between a bounce and a conversion. Use this tool regularly to ensure your routing logic remains optimized as you scale your infrastructure.