System administration

DNSControl – infrastructure as code for DNS

DNSControl is an infrastructure-as-code system for defining and maintaining DNS zones. Configuration is stored in dnsconfig.js and uses a JavaScript-compatible domain-specific language to describe domains, records, registrars and DNS providers.

The same configuration can be kept in version control, reviewed with the rest of an infrastructure change and deployed through automated workflows. DNSControl separates the desired DNS state from provider-specific APIs, which is particularly useful when an organisation uses several DNS services or needs consistent records across many zones.

This is free and open source software.

Key Features

  • Defines DNS zones with a JavaScript-compatible domain-specific language rather than provider-specific configuration.
  • Shows proposed additions, changes and deletions with dnscontrol preview before anything is applied.
  • Applies the approved configuration to supported DNS providers with dnscontrol push.
  • Uses provider and registrar integrations so one configuration can work across different DNS services.
  • Fits Git-based review and CI/CD workflows, making DNS changes auditable alongside other infrastructure code.
  • Supports reusable variables, macros and transforms for reducing duplication across related domains and records.
  • Can manage provider-specific capabilities while retaining a common configuration model for ordinary records.
  • Includes validation that catches configuration errors before changes are sent to providers.

Website: github.com/DNSControl/dnscontrol
Support:
Developer: Tom Limoncelli and contributors
License: MIT License

DNSControl is written in Go. Learn Go with our recommended free books and free tutorials.


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DNS-collectorCollect, transform and route DNS traffic data for monitoring and analysis
DesignateMulti-tenant DNSaaS service for OpenStack
Zonemaster-CLIPut DNS zones through extensive automated checks from a terminal
dnsiTool to investigate the DNS
DiggerModern DNS lookup tool with a graphical interface
dnstToolset to assist DNS operators with zone and nameserver maintenance
dnspyreCommand-line DNS benchmark tool
dns-lexiconManage DNS records across providers through a consistent interface

Read our verdict in the software roundup.


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