What Is AAAA Record (IPv6)?
An AAAA record (quad-A record) maps a domain name to an IPv6 address, the newer 128-bit internet address format. It's the IPv6 equivalent of the A record, which maps to IPv4 addresses.
Why It Matters
The internet is gradually moving from IPv4 (32-bit addresses like 93.184.216.34) to IPv6 (128-bit addresses like 2606:4700::6810:84e5). AAAA records are how domains support IPv6 connections. Both record types map to an IP address — just different versions of the protocol.
For most domain forwarding setups, you only need an A record. IPv4 coverage is universal. But if your audience includes IPv6-only networks (some mobile carriers, enterprise networks), an AAAA record ensures they can reach your redirect.
How It Works
example.com A 93.184.216.34 ← IPv4
example.com AAAA 2606:2800:220:1:248:1:1 ← IPv6When a browser resolves example.com:
- It queries for both A and AAAA records
- If IPv6 is available, it prefers the AAAA record
- If not, it falls back to the A record
A Record vs AAAA Record
| Feature | A Record | AAAA Record |
|---|---|---|
| IP version | IPv4 | IPv6 |
| Address length | 32-bit (4 bytes) | 128-bit (16 bytes) |
| Example | 93.184.216.34 | 2606:2800:220:1:248:1:1 |
| Required? | Yes (for now) | Optional |
| DNS propagation | Same as AAAA | Same as A |
How Domain Forward Handles This
Domain Forward’s DNS setup primarily uses A records and CNAME records to route traffic. Our infrastructure supports both IPv4 and IPv6, ensuring redirects work regardless of how visitors connect.
Related Terms
Related Features
Frequently
asked questions
Not usually. Domain Forward's servers are accessible via IPv4 (A records), which all devices support. Adding an AAAA record is optional and only matters if you want to support IPv6-only networks.
An AAAA record maps a domain to a 128-bit IPv6 address like 2606:4700:3030::6815:1234. The 'AAAA' name comes from the fact that IPv6 addresses are four times the length of IPv4 addresses (128 bits vs 32 bits).
Yes. Most domains have both. The browser tries IPv6 first (AAAA), then falls back to IPv4 (A) if IPv6 isn't available. This is called dual-stack DNS.
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