FQDN: What Is a Fully Qualified Domain Name + Real-Life Examples

Key takeaways:

• FQDNs offer convenience and organization benefits.
• FQDNs are complete and specific address of a server.
• FQDNs help clearly identify resources on the internet without confusion.

Understanding the complicated nature of the internet is important for anyone venturing online, especially for small business owners and entrepreneurs. A crucial part of it is domain names, which serve as an address for websites online. Fully qualified domain names (FQDN) stand out as a cornerstone of internet navigation and website identity.

This guide aims to demystify FQDNs, offering insights into their role, significance, and how they differ from their counterpart, the partially qualified domain name (PQDN).

What is a fully qualified domain name?

A fully qualified domain name (FQDN), also known as an absolute domain name, is the complete and specific address of a server or host on the internet. Think of it as the full mailing address of an online location. Just as your home address includes your house number, street, city, and zip code, an FQDN encompasses every part of the domain, ensuring an exact and unique destination.

For instance, in the FQDN “mail.example.com,” “mail” is a subdomain of “example.com,” forming a complete path to the specific mail server under the “example.com” domain.

Examples of FQDN in real life

To better understand FQDNs, consider this analogy: If your website were an apartment in a large building, the FQDN would be its complete address. For example, “123-21 Example Bldg.” The FQDN contains the building (like a domain name) and the exact apartment number (similar to a subdomain in an FQDN).

Here are some more examples to illustrate their structure and diversity:

• Web server example
  • www.example.com
  • In this example, www is the subdomain, example is the second-level domain, and .com is the top-level domain (TLD). This FQDN points to the main web server of the example.com domain.
• Mail server example 
  • mail.company.org
  • Here, mail is the subdomain typically used for email servers, company is the second-level domain, and .org is the TLD. This FQDN is important to access the email server of company.org.
• FTP server example 
  • ftp.archive.net
  • ftp indicates a subdomain used for a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) server, archive is the second-level domain, and .net is the TLD. One would use this FQDN for file transfers associated with archive.net.
• Database server example 
  • db1.internal.example.com
  • In this case, db1 is a subdomain representing a specific database server. Internal could be a secondary subdomain indicating an internal network. Then, example.com forms the main domain. A company uses this FQDN to access a particular database server.
• API server example 
  • api.service.example.co.uk
  • api signifies a subdomain for an Application Programming Interface (API) server, service could be a second-level domain, and example.co.uk is the main domain with a country-specific TLD. This FQDN points to an API server for service.example.co.uk.
• Cloud service example 
  • cloud-storage.enterprise.com
  • cloud-storage is a descriptive subdomain, enterprise is the second-level domain, and .com is the TLD. This FQDN could lead to a cloud storage service for enterprise.com.
• Educational institution example 
  • student.portal.university.edu
  • Here, student is a subdomain, portal might be a secondary subdomain for a student portal, and university.edu is the main domain with an educational TLD.
• Government website example 
  • services.department.gov.us
  • services is a subdomain for a specific service, department is the second-level domain, and gov.us indicates a government domain in the United States. This FQDN might point to a particular service offered by a government department.

How FQDN is different from PQDN

Partially qualified domain names (PQDN) represent only a portion of a full domain name, often omitting certain elements like subdomains or the top-level domain (TLD). For instance, using just “example” instead of the full “www.example.com” is a PQDN.

While PQDNs can be convenient within certain closed networks or specific contexts, they lack the universality and specificity of FQDNs, which might lead to ambiguities in the broader internet environment.

Technical insights: FQDN vs. PQDN

Delving deeper into the technical realm, the distinction between FQDN and PQDN becomes more pronounced. FQDNs are key for a globally unambiguous identification of internet resources, ensuring each address leads to a unique location. PQDNs, while useful in localized settings, might result in confusion or misdirection when used in a broader context. For businesses seeking a robust online presence, FQDNs offer the reliability and specificity needed for effective digital operations.

The benefits of using FQDNs

FQDNs offer numerous benefits, notably in terms of convenience and organization. They are easier to remember and use than numerical IP addresses, providing a user-friendly way to access websites.

Additionally, FQDNs allow for clear segregation of different services under one domain, like differentiating “shop.example.com” from “blog.example.com.” This segmentation enhances the user experience by directing them to the appropriate service. Here are other benefits of using FQDNs.

To get SSL certificates

FQDNs play a role in secure sockets layer (SSL) certificates. These certificates, which secure and encrypt data between a user and a website, are only issued to websites with a valid FQDN. This requirement underscores the importance of FQDNs in establishing secure, trustworthy online interactions, which are a must-have for any eCommerce or data-sensitive website.

To optimize your website

Proper use of FQDNs can indirectly enhance your website’s effectiveness and SEO performance. By choosing a clear, descriptive FQDN, you make your site more accessible and memorable to your audience. Network Solutions’ services, including domain registration and website building, empower you to optimize your online presence with the perfect FQDN tailored to your business needs.

How to find an FQDN

FQDNs aren’t limited to websites only. Your device also has its full name. To locate them, here’s how:

For Windows users 

1. On the Start menu, search and click View your PC name.
2. In the Related links row, click Advanced system settings.

You’ll see FQDN in the Full Computer Name field.

For macOS users

1. Navigate the Apple menu and click Settings.
2. Click Sharing
3. Scroll down to the Local hostname section to see your FQDN.

For Linux users

1. Press CTRL + ALT + T to open the Terminal app.
2. Enter hostname –fqdn

Using FQDN for digital success

Understanding and utilizing FQDNs is beyond being a technical requirement; it’s a strategic step toward establishing a strong, recognizable online presence. As we’ve explored, the benefits of FQDNs range from improved navigation and organization to enhanced security.

With its comprehensive suite of digital solutions, Network Solutions is ready to assist you in navigating this aspect of your journey to success.

Frequently asked questions