xDNS 3.1

In today's interconnected digital landscape, DNS (Domain Name System) management is a critical component of network infrastructure. Whether you're a system administrator, network engineer, or IT professional, having a reliable and user-friendly tool to manage DNS servers is essential. Enter xDNS - a native macOS application that brings professional-grade BIND DNS server management to your desktop.

What is xDNS?

xDNS is a modern, SwiftUI-based macOS application designed specifically for managing BIND DNS servers. Built with native macOS technologies, it provides an intuitive graphical interface for what has traditionally been a command-line-only task. Version 3.1 represents a mature, feature-rich solution that transforms complex DNS management into a streamlined, visual experience.

Comprehensive Dashboard

The xDNS dashboard provides real-time insights into your DNS server's health and performance:

• Live server status monitoring (Running/Stopped/Error)
• Zone and record statistics
• System resource utilization
• Quick server control actions

Advanced DNS Record Management

xDNS supports all major DNS record types with intelligent validation:
• A Records - IPv4 address mapping
• AAAA Records - IPv6 address mapping
• CNAME Records - Canonical name aliases
• MX Records - Mail exchange with priority support
• NS Records - Name server delegation
• PTR Records - Reverse DNS lookups
• SRV Records - Service location with priority, weight, and port
• TXT Records - Text-based records for SPF, DKIM, etc.
• SOA Records - Start of Authority information

Each record type includes built-in validation, TTL management, and automatic sanitization to prevent configuration errors.

Zone Management

Create and manage DNS zones with ease:
• Add new zones with proper SOA record configuration
• Import existing zone files
• Export zones to standard BIND format
• Zone file syntax validation
• Automatic zone reloading

Server Configuration

Comprehensive BIND server configuration management:

• Network Settings: Configure listen addresses and ports
• Security: Set up query permissions and access controls
• Forwarders: Quick setup for popular DNS providers:
  - Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4)
  - Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1)
  - Quad9 DNS (9.9.9.9, 149.112.112.112)
  - OpenDNS (208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220)
• DNSSEC: Enable and configure DNSSEC settings
• Logging: Adjust logging levels and verbosity

Server Control

Full control over your BIND DNS server:

• One-click start/stop functionality
• Server restart with configuration reload
• Real-time status monitoring
• Automatic service management via launchctl
• Graceful shutdown and startup sequences

Live Logging and Monitoring

Stay informed about your DNS server's activity:

• Real-time log viewing
• Error detection and reporting
• Performance monitoring
• Configuration validation feedback

Built-in Tutorial System

xDNS includes an integrated tutorial system to help users:
• Learn DNS concepts and best practices
• Understand BIND configuration options
• Master zone file management
• Troubleshoot common issues

Native macOS Integration

• Built with SwiftUI for optimal performance and native feel
• Follows macOS design guidelines and conventions
• Proper sandboxing and security entitlements
• Integration with macOS system services

Package Manager Integration

• Automatic detection of Homebrew and MacPorts
• Seamless BIND installation through package managers
• Path detection and configuration
• Dependency management

System Requirements

• macOS: 13.5 (Ventura) or later
• BIND DNS Server: Installed via Homebrew or MacPorts
• Administrator Privileges: For server management operations
• Hardware: Any Mac capable of running macOS 13.5+