Cybersecurity isn’t just about securing your website — your domain name also needs protection. One of the most effective ways to protect your domain from hijacking or spoofing attacks is by enabling DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions).

DNSSEC adds a cryptographic signature to your DNS records, ensuring that visitors are directed only to your legitimate website, not a malicious duplicate.

If your domain is registered with Sternhost, enabling DNSSEC is quick, intuitive, and supported by default across most TLDs.

What is DNSSEC?

DNSSEC is a security protocol that protects your domain’s DNS records by adding a layer of digital signatures.
It helps ensure:

• 🛡️ Integrity – Your DNS data cannot be tampered with.

• ✅ Authentication – Visitors are guaranteed to reach your real domain.

• 🔒 Protection – Prevents DNS cache poisoning and man-in-the-middle attacks.

Without DNSSEC, attackers could redirect your visitors to fake websites that steal sensitive data.

How DNSSEC Works

Here’s the simplified flow:

1. Your domain’s DNS records are signed with a private key.

2. A public key is published in the DNS for verification.

3. When users visit your domain, their resolvers verify the DNS response against the signature.

4. If the record matches, it confirms the data is legitimate.

This authentication process prevents DNS spoofing.

Step-by-Step: Enabling DNSSEC for Your Domain

Step 1: Check if Your Domain Supports DNSSEC

Most modern TLDs (.com, .net, .org, .ng, etc.) support DNSSEC.
If you’re unsure, check your registrar’s DNSSEC compatibility or contact Sternhost Support.

Step 2: Log in to Your Domain Control Panel

1. Go to your Sternhost Client Portal.

2. Navigate to Domains → Manage Domain → DNS Management.

3. Look for the DNSSEC option or tab.

Step 3: Enable DNSSEC

• Click “Enable DNSSEC”.

• The system will generate a DS Record (Delegation Signer) automatically.

• Copy the Key Tag, Algorithm, Digest Type, and Digest values.

Step 4: Add DS Record to Your Registrar

If your domain is registered elsewhere:

1. Log in to your registrar’s panel.

2. Find DNSSEC Management under the domain settings.

3. Add the DS Record provided by Sternhost.

4. Save the changes.

Your DNSSEC will propagate globally within 24–48 hours.

Step-by-Step: Verifying DNSSEC

To confirm that DNSSEC is active:

• Visit dnssec-analyzer.verisignlabs.com.

• Enter your domain name.

• You should see a green “Secure” status if everything is configured correctly.

Alternatively, you can use the Sternhost DNS Tools to verify your setup.

Benefits of DNSSEC

✅ Prevents domain hijacking
✅ Improves customer trust
✅ Protects email authenticity (via SPF/DKIM alignment)
✅ Adds credibility to your online brand

Troubleshooting Tips

• Ensure all your DNS records are correctly signed.

• Avoid changing DNS providers without exporting your DNSSEC keys.

• If propagation fails, recheck your DS Record for typos.

DNSSEC is one of the simplest yet most powerful tools for enhancing domain security. By enabling DNSSEC, you ensure that your visitors always reach the authentic version of your website.

If you’re using Sternhost, enabling DNSSEC is just a few clicks away.
👉 Secure your domain now at Sternhost Domains and keep your brand protected from online threats.