# Understanding the Importance of Reliable DNS Infrastructure
**Summary:**
Maintaining the authoritative domain name system (DNS) infrastructure is critical for businesses. While some opt for Do-It-Yourself (DIY) DNS setups, there are risks involved that organizations need to mitigate. This article delves into the challenges of DIY authoritative DNS and the importance of having a backup plan. IBM NS1 Connect offers a Dedicated DNS service, acting as a safety net for organizations relying on DIY DNS setups.
**Challenges of Building DIY Authoritative DNS:**
Building DIY authoritative DNS systems can be complex and risky. It requires substantial effort to develop, maintain, and troubleshoot these systems. Lack of automation, dependency on individual expertise, and potential brittleness of the infrastructure are some of the primary concerns.
**Mitigating Risks with Backup Systems:**
Implementing a redundant backup system for authoritative DNS is essential to avoid downtime and swiftly address issues. A backup system should include separate infrastructure, real-time performance monitoring, and health checks to ensure quick failover and uninterrupted service.
**IBM NS1 Connect as a Reliable Backup:**
IBM NS1 Connect’s Dedicated DNS service offers a distinct and resilient backup solution for authoritative DNS. It ensures a separate infrastructure, compatibility with various primary systems, real-time performance insights, health checks, and facilitates easy migrations for organizations implementing DIY DNS setups.
**FAQs**
**1. Why is DNS infrastructure crucial for organizations?**
DNS infrastructure is essential for translating domain names into IP addresses, facilitating internet communication, and ensuring website accessibility.
**2. What are the risks of DIY authoritative DNS?**
DIY DNS systems can be fragile, labor-intensive to manage, lack automation support, and become unsustainable if the architect leaves the organization.
**3. Why is it important to have a backup plan for DNS systems?**
Having a backup plan ensures continuity of service, quick recovery from outages, and minimizes the impact of technical errors on business operations.