Check types

DNS checks

Resolve A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, or NS records against a chosen resolver and optionally match expected values.

Updated 2026-06-16

A DNS check resolves a record for a domain and confirms it looks the way you expect. It catches problems an HTTP check can't see, like a misconfigured zone or a record that was accidentally changed or removed.

Configuration options

  • Record typeA, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, or NS.
  • Resolver — optionally pin the check to a specific resolver (for example 8.8.8.8) instead of the default.
  • Expected values — optionally list the values you expect the record to resolve to. If you leave this blank, the check only confirms the record is resolvable at all.

When to use it

  • Catching an accidental DNS change (someone edits an A record and points it at the wrong host).
  • Confirming MX records are correct so mail keeps routing properly.
  • Watching a CNAME used for a custom status page domain or another third-party integration.

DNS checks are lightweight and independent of whatever's actually running on the resolved host — pair one with an HTTP or TCP check on the same target for full coverage.

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