What is an A (Address) record?
An A record (Address record) maps a domain name to an IPv4 address:
tidalmail.com A 192.0.2.1
Purpose: When someone visits tidalmail.com, DNS returns 192.0.2.1, and the browser connects there.
Email relevance:
- MX records point to hostnames, which need A records to resolve to IPs.
- Webmail interfaces need A records for browser access.
- Some authentication uses A record lookups for IP verification.
A records are fundamental. Almost every DNS lookup eventually resolves to an A (or AAAA) record.
The A record is the GPS coordinates. Every destination name eventually resolves to actual coordinates.
Need personalized help?
Understand how A records affect your email delivery. Open an AI assistant with your question pre-loaded — just add your details and send.
Was this answer helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!