Overview
nslookup is a command-line tool for querying DNS records. Used to resolve domain names to IP addresses, look up specific record types, and troubleshoot DNS issues. Available on both Linux and Windows.
Target / Context
DNS servers and domain name resolution. Useful during recon to map domains, find mail servers, identify subdomains, and verify DNS configuration.
Installation
Installation Commands:
Pre-installed on most Linux and Windows systems
sudo apt install dnsutilsBasic Usage
Basic Usage:
nslookup www.example.comman nslookupFlags & Options
Flags & Options:
| Flag | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
type=A | Query A records (IPv4) | nslookup -type=A example.com |
type=AAAA | Query AAAA records (IPv6) | nslookup -type=AAAA example.com |
type=MX | Query mail exchange records | nslookup -type=MX example.com |
type=TXT | Query TXT records | nslookup -type=TXT example.com |
type=NS | Query nameserver records | nslookup -type=NS example.com |
Common Use Cases
Resolve a Domain
Commands:
nslookup www.example.comQuery Specific Record Types
Commands:
nslookup -type=MX example.comnslookup -type=TXT example.comnslookup -type=NS example.com