host

Additional Notes

host is a simple DNS lookup tool. It resolves names to addresses, addresses to names, and can query specific DNS record types.

It is easier to read than dig for quick checks, while dig is better for detailed DNS troubleshooting.

Syntax

host [options] name [server]

Parameters

• options: Flags that change how host behaves.
• name: Domain name or IP address to look up.

Common Options

• -t TYPE: Query record type such as A, AAAA, MX, TXT, or NS.
• -a: Show all available information.
• -v: Verbose output.
• -W SECONDS: Set wait timeout.

Examples

host example.com

Resolve a domain.

host 8.8.8.8

Reverse lookup an IP address.

host -t MX example.com

Query mail records.

host -t TXT example.com

Query TXT records.

host example.com 1.1.1.1

Ask a specific DNS server.

Practical Notes

• Use dig +short for script-friendly output.
• DNS results may differ by resolver and cache.
• If ping 8.8.8.8 works but host example.com fails, suspect DNS.