About name servers
Name servers are the authoritative source for a domain's DNS records. When you change name servers, you move your domain's DNS to a new provider. Checking a domain's NS records confirms which provider currently runs its DNS.
Related: DNS lookup, DNS propagation, and WHOIS lookup.
Frequently asked questions
What is an NS record?
An NS (name server) record lists the authoritative name servers responsible for a domain's DNS. These are the servers that hold the real answers for the domain's records.
Why does a domain have multiple name servers?
For redundancy. If one name server is unreachable, others can still answer, so the domain stays online.
How do I change my name servers?
You set them at your domain registrar. Changing them points your domain to a different DNS provider, and it can take time to propagate.