When a PC logs into a domain, what is the sequence for name lookups?

When a workstation logs onto a domain, what is the sequence for name lookups (where does it look first)? We have local DNS and WINS.
DNS name resolution occurs in the following order:
  1. Local DNS cache
  2. HOSTS file
  3. DNS server
  4. NetBIOS name cache
  5. WINS server
  6. Network broadcast
  7. LMHOSTS file
NetBIOS name resolution takes a slightly different path:
  1. NetBIOS name cache
  2. WINS server
  3. Network broadcast
  4. LMHOSTS file
  5. Local DNS cache
  6. HOSTS file
  7. DNS server
The path that a given workstation takes to do name resolution depends on a number of factors, including operating system -- NetBIOS-based OSes like NT4 versus a DNS-based OS like Windows 2000. You can also fine-tune the network settings on an individual workstation to define what will be used for name resolution.

This was first published in April 2003

Join the conversationComment

Share
Comments

    Results

    Contribute to the conversation

    All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.
    Back to top