What are the downsides for a web manager of not having full DNS management access?

Not having full DNS (Domain Name System) management access as a web manager can pose several challenges and limitations. Some of the downsides include:

1. Limited control: Without full access, a web manager may not be able to modify or create new DNS records, which could limit the ability to add new services or features to the website, such as email or subdomains.
2. Reliance on third parties: If a web manager doesn’t have full DNS management access, they may need to rely on third-party providers or the domain registrar to make changes, which can be time-consuming and may result in delays or miscommunications.
3. Security risks: Limited DNS access might restrict the web manager’s ability to implement important security measures, such as configuring DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) to protect the website from DNS-related attacks.
4. Inability to manage TTL (Time To Live): Full DNS management access allows the web manager to set the TTL for DNS records, which controls how long a DNS resolver caches the record. Without this control, it can be more difficult to manage cache times and update records promptly.
5. Troubleshooting difficulties: Full access is often necessary to diagnose and fix issues related to DNS configurations, such as incorrect records or domain propagation delays. Limited access can hinder a web manager’s ability to quickly identify and resolve these problems.
6. Difficulty in switching hosting providers: If a web manager decides to change hosting providers, they’ll need full DNS access to update the domain’s nameservers. Without this access, switching providers could become a complex and lengthy process.
7. Reduced flexibility: Full DNS management access allows for more granular control over the domain and its associated services, enabling customization and optimization. Limited access can restrict these options, potentially hindering the website’s performance and growth.

Overall, not having full DNS management access can significantly limit a web manager’s ability to effectively maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize a website. It can also lead to increased reliance on third parties, delays in making changes, and potential security vulnerabilities.

Should business owners own their own domains and maintain full access control?

Yes, it is generally recommended that business owners own their own domains and maintain full access control. There are several benefits to doing so:

1. Control: Owning your domain and maintaining full access control allows you to manage all aspects of your website and its related services, such as email and subdomains. This gives you the flexibility to make changes as needed without relying on third parties.
2. Branding and credibility: Owning your domain helps establish your brand identity and builds credibility with customers. It also protects your brand from potential infringement or misuse by others.
3. Security: Full access control enables you to implement important security measures, such as DNSSEC, which helps protect your website from DNS-related attacks. You can also control access to sensitive information and manage who has the ability to make changes to your domain settings.
4. Business continuity: Owning your domain and maintaining full access control ensures that you can quickly update your DNS records if you need to change hosting providers or if any technical issues arise. This helps maintain your website’s uptime and minimize disruptions to your online presence.
5. Portability: If you decide to switch hosting providers, owning your domain and having full access control makes it easier to update your domain’s nameservers and smoothly transition to a new provider.
6. Asset ownership: Your domain is an important digital asset for your business, and owning it outright ensures that you retain control over this asset, even if your business grows or changes hands.
7. Value: A well-established domain with a good history and search engine rankings can add value to your business, especially if you ever decide to sell your company or pursue other opportunities.

While it’s true that owning and managing your domain requires some additional responsibility, the benefits of control, security, and flexibility generally outweigh any potential downsides. Business owners who maintain full access control over their domains can more effectively manage their online presence and adapt to the evolving needs of their businesses.