What is the function of DNS in networking?

The function of DNS, or Domain Name System, in networking is to translate domain names into IP addresses. When you enter a web address (like www.example.com) into your browser, the DNS is responsible for resolving that name into the corresponding IP address (like 192.168.1.1), which is necessary for your device to locate and connect to the server that hosts the website.

This translation process is crucial because while humans find it easier to remember names, computers and other networking equipment operate using numerical IP addresses. Without DNS, users would need to memorize and enter these numerical addresses to access websites, which would be cumbersome and impractical. By facilitating easy navigation on the internet, DNS plays an essential role in ensuring that web traffic is directed to the correct location efficiently.

Other options, while related to networking concepts, do not encapsulate the primary responsibility of DNS. Assigning IP addresses generally refers to processes like DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), while retrieving data from the internet and transferring files pertain to other protocols and functions within network communication.