Re: DNS questions

steve <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote:
> We are having some problems with our Linux DNS computer on a windows
> network.

> In other words, Its my understading that I simply need to add to the
> file /etc/resolv.conf a line like
> nameserver 8.8.8.8
> And that affectively adds the dns number.

Pretty much, yes. If you're trying to debug this stuff make sure you've
removed (or commented out) any other nameserver entry here. Also, be
aware that /etc/resolv.conf can be updated via DHCP, so your change may
get overwritten. (There are ways round this, but its out of scope
for now.)


> However Does this change the moment I add this line to the file. Or
> is there somethign else I need to do.

It changes from the instant you write out the new version of the file.


> eg if I start to suf the web from a windows machine that is
> using this linux comptuer as a dns is it changed.

In most instances the DNS is checked via /etc/resolv.conf each time you
need a name resolved. Obvious exceptions are when you're using a web
proxy, or when DNS is configured to use your Windows WINS service for
name resolution.


> I have looked high and low for a command to tell me what the (active)
> dns is on linux and the only responses I can find are look in the
> resolv.conf file.

Provided that names are being resolved via DNS, this is correct. But
names can also be resolved via other services - and also in the file
/etc/hosts. The *usual* networked method is to look names up using DNS.


> But just becasue its in the resolv.conf file doesnt mean its using this
> NEW dns number. (unless that the way it works.) I wish there was a
> commadn line in windows like ipconfig /all which shows it. Is the such
> a command in linux? or if its in the resolve file does it just work?

It just works.


> By the way here are my nslookup results. the web site itravel2000.com
> (amonst others we cant get to ) But google we can.??

> [root@smclinux ~]# nslookup itravel2000.com
> ;; connection timed out; no servers could be reached

> [root@smclinux ~]# nslookup www.google.com
> Server: 192.168.1.1
> Address: 192.168.1.1#53

Is 192.168.1.1 your linux box? If not, then you need to look there for
your DNS resolving problem, first.

Chris