Domains, DNS, and HTTPS
Learn how domain names, DNS resolution, and SSL/TLS certificates work together to make your applications accessible and secure on the internet.
7 lessons
How Domains Work
A domain is a human-readable name for your website. DNS translates that name into the IP address computers actually use.
DNS Records Explained
DNS records tell the internet where to find your services. Different record types serve different purposes.
Setting Up Custom Domains
Connecting your domain to a deployed application involves configuring DNS records and verifying ownership with your hosting platform.
Local Development With Custom Hosts
Test domain configurations locally before making real DNS changes using your computer's hosts file.
HTTPS and Why It Matters
HTTPS encrypts web traffic and proves site identity — it's mandatory for modern web applications.
Getting SSL Certificates With Let's Encrypt
Let's Encrypt provides free, automated SSL certificates — there's no reason to pay for basic HTTPS anymore.
Self-Signed Certificates for Development
Test HTTPS features locally using self-signed certificates — browsers will warn you, but development continues.