What does a Canonical Name (CNAME) record do?

A Canonical Name (CNAME) record is a type of DNS (Domain Name System) record that maps one domain name to another. This allows you to associate multiple domain names with a single IP address or server, making it easier to manage and maintain your web presence. For example, if you have a primary domain (like example.com) and want to create an alias (like www.example.com), a CNAME record enables users to access the same resource through both domain names seamlessly.

This mapping is particularly useful for directing traffic, maintaining brand consistency, and implementing changes without having to modify multiple DNS records. When a CNAME is resolved, the DNS look-up process ensures that users are directed to the correct server associated with the primary name, facilitating easier website management and potentially improving SEO.

The remaining choices relate to different aspects of internet functionality, none of which pertain to the specific function of a CNAME record. For instance, establishing email sending parameters pertains more to MX (Mail Exchange) records, while security protocols for web traffic are generally associated with SSL certificates and A records. Similarly, storing user credentials for access control involves authentication mechanisms, which do not involve CNAME records.