What Is DNS? A Simple Guide for Beginners in Africa
If you’ve ever bought a domain name or tried to connect your website, email, or app online, you’ve probably heard the term DNS. For many beginners in Africa, DNS can sound technical and confusing — but it doesn’t have to be.
This guide explains DNS in very simple terms, specifically for beginners in Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, and across Africa, and shows how you can easily manage DNS using HoganHost FreeDNS.
What Is DNS?
DNS (Domain Name System) is like the phonebook of the internet.
- Humans use domain names like example.co.za or example.com.ng
- Computers use IP addresses like 192.168.1.1
DNS connects your domain name to the server where your website or email is hosted.
Without DNS, your website or email will not work.
Why DNS Is Important for African Businesses
For businesses and individuals in Africa, DNS is essential because it allows you to:
- Connect your domain to your website hosting
- Create professional email addresses (e.g. [email protected])
- Point your domain to apps, payment platforms, or cloud services
- Control where your domain sends traffic
Whether you’re running a business in Nigeria, a startup in South Africa, an NGO in Kenya, or an online store in Ghana or Uganda, DNS is the backbone of your online presence.
Common DNS Records Explained (Very Simple)
Here are the most common DNS records you’ll use:
A Record
Links your domain to a server IP address.
- Used to connect your domain to website hosting
CNAME Record
Points one domain to another domain.
- Often used for subdomains like www
MX Record
Controls where your email is received.
- Required for professional email services
TXT Record
Used for verification and security.
- Common for SSL, email protection, and Google services
NS Record
Tells the internet which DNS provider controls your domain.
With HoganHost FreeDNS, all these records are available and easy to manage.
What Is FreeDNS?
FreeDNS allows you to manage DNS records for your domain without paying anything.
With HoganHost FreeDNS, you can:
- Use DNS even if your domain is registered elsewhere
- Get instant activation
- Manage all DNS record types
- Enjoy stable and reliable nameservers
Start here: https://hoganhost.com.ng/home/freedns
How to Use HoganHost FreeDNS (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit HoganHost FreeDNS
Go to: https://hoganhost.com.ng/home/freedns
Step 2: Search Your Domain
Enter your domain name and place an order.
Approval is automatic and instant.
Step 3: Update Your Nameservers
Log in to your domain registrar or contact them for help and update your domain’s nameservers to HoganHost FreeDNS nameservers.
Step 4: Wait for DNS Propagation
DNS changes usually take a few minutes to a few hours (sometimes up to 24 hours).
Once propagation is complete, your domain will work perfectly with HoganHost FreeDNS.
DNS + Hosting + Domains (How They Work Together)
To fully use DNS, you usually need:
- A domain name (.ng, .za, .ke, .gh, etc.)
- Hosting to store your website
- DNS to connect everything together
HoganHost provides domains, hosting, and FreeDNS — making it easy for African users to manage everything in one place.
Common DNS Problems Beginners Face (And Solutions)
Website Not Loading
✔ Check your A record
Emails Not Working
✔ Verify MX records
Changes Not Showing
✔ Wait for DNS propagation
HoganHost tools like DNS Checker help you confirm everything is working correctly.
Why Use HoganHost for DNS in Africa?
- Designed for African businesses and users
- FreeDNS with instant activation
- Supports Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, and more
- Simple dashboard for beginners
- Trusted hosting and domain provider
HoganHost makes DNS simple — even if you’ve never touched it before.
Final Thoughts
DNS may sound technical, but it’s simply how your domain talks to the internet. With HoganHost FreeDNS, beginners across Africa can manage DNS easily, securely, and for free.
Start managing your DNS today: https://hoganhost.com.ng/home/freedns
