2.6  DNS configuration and setting of DNS Forwarder

Setting DNS at the domain server

To provide proper functionality of Active Directory, it is necessary that a domain server is set as the primary DNS server. In DNS configuration at this server, set DNS forwarding for the other DNS Forwarder domains in WinRoute, i.e. to IP address 192.168.1.1. This will ensure correct forwarding to the filial's domain (see chapters 4.1  Headquarters configuration and 4.2  Configuration of a filial office) and speed up answering queries forwarded to DNS servers to in the Internet.

Microsoft DNS server — DNS forwarding configuration

Figure 2.14. Microsoft DNS server — DNS forwarding configuration


Now, specify DNS name of the WinRoute host (e.g. kwf.company.com). This name will be used by clients for connections to the WinRoute's web interface.

Specification of DNS name for the WinRoute host

Figure 2.15. Specification of DNS name for the WinRoute host


DNS Forwarder configuration

Go to Configuration → DNS Forwarder to configure DNS servers to which DNS queries will be forwarded. It is recommended to use the Selected domain's forwarder IP address list option and to enter IP addresses of one or more DNS servers in the Internet (for easier debugging).

DNS servers of your Internet connection provider are the most convenient ones for this purpose (best availability). To get their IP addresses, contact the provider.

DNS Forwarder configuration

Figure 2.16. DNS Forwarder configuration


Advanced parameters of the DNS Forwarder:

  • It is recommended to enable the Enable cache... option (this will fasten responses to repeated DNS queries).

  • Enable the Use custom forwarding option to set parameters necessary for correct forwarding of DNS queries between the headquarters network and networks of branch offices. For detailed description on these settings, refer to chapter 4.1  Headquarters configuration (or to chapter 4.2  Configuration of a filial office).

  • Leave the 'hosts' file and DHCP lease table options disabled as DNS Forwarder is not used as a local domain's DNS server (this function is executed by a DNS server at the domain's server).