DNS Propagation Checker
What Is DNS Propagation?
DNS propagation is the time it takes for changes to DNS records to spread across all DNS servers around the world. When you update a DNS record - such as changing the IP address your domain points to, adding a new mail server, or updating a TXT record - the change is first applied at your authoritative nameserver. DNS resolvers worldwide then gradually pick up the new record as their cached copies expire.
The speed of DNS propagation depends primarily on the TTL (Time To Live) value of the record. TTL is measured in seconds and tells DNS resolvers how long to cache a record before checking for an update. A record with a TTL of 300 seconds (5 minutes) will propagate much faster than one with a TTL of 86400 seconds (24 hours), because resolvers refresh their cache more frequently with lower TTL values.
Our DNS propagation checker queries your domain's DNS records from multiple resolvers in different geographic locations simultaneously. This shows you in real time which resolvers have picked up the new record and which are still serving the old cached version. The results include the resolver name, location, returned records, and response latency for each query.
When planning DNS changes, best practice is to lower the TTL of the affected record 24 to 48 hours before making the change. Set it to a low value like 300 seconds so that when you make the actual change, most resolvers will refresh within minutes. After the change has fully propagated, you can raise the TTL back to a higher value to reduce DNS query load and improve resolution speed for end users.
Records that show the same value across all resolvers indicate that propagation is complete. Records that differ between resolvers mean propagation is still in progress. Our tool highlights consistent results in green and differing results in yellow so you can quickly assess the propagation status at a glance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNS propagation?
DNS propagation is the process by which updated DNS records spread across all DNS servers worldwide. When you change a record, DNS resolvers gradually pick up the new version as their cached copies expire based on the TTL value.
How long does DNS propagation take?
Typically between a few minutes and 48 hours, depending on the TTL value. Records with low TTL (300 seconds) propagate much faster than those with high TTL (86400 seconds). Most changes propagate within 1 to 4 hours.
Why do DNS records show different values in different locations?
Different DNS resolvers cache records independently. When you update a record, some resolvers may still serve the old cached version while others have fetched the new one. Geographic location, resolver configuration, and TTL values all affect refresh timing.
How can I speed up DNS propagation?
Lower the TTL 24 to 48 hours before making changes. Set it to 300 seconds (5 minutes), make your changes, then raise the TTL back once propagation is complete. You cannot force external resolvers to refresh their cache.