What is the function of NSLOOKUP?

NSLOOKUP is a command-line tool used primarily to query the Domain Name System (DNS) to obtain information about various DNS records. Its primary function is to verify DNS entries and to troubleshoot DNS-related issues. By using NSLOOKUP, users can check the DNS database on a specific DNS server, which allows them to find the IP addresses associated with domain names, and vice versa.

When users input a domain name, NSLOOKUP retrieves the corresponding IP address from the DNS server, or it can be used to request specific record types like MX (Mail Exchange) records or CNAME (Canonical Name) records. This functionality is essential for diagnosing problems related to domain resolution and ensuring that DNS settings are correctly configured.

In contrast, tools that check network traffic typically focus on monitoring data packets being transferred over the network rather than resolving domain name queries. Similarly, managing local network devices involves configuring and controlling routers, switches, and other hardware, which falls outside the scope of what NSLOOKUP does. Displaying system logs relates to accessing event records on a machine, which is also separate from the DNS querying capabilities of NSLOOKUP. Thus, the correct answer highlights the essential role of NSLOOKUP in verifying DNS databases on DNS servers.