What does DNS stand for, and what is its function?

DNS stands for Domain Name System, and its primary function is to translate user-friendly domain names, like www.example.com, into their corresponding IP addresses, which are numerical identifiers used by devices on a network to locate and communicate with each other. This system is highly essential for the functionality of the internet because users typically find it easier to remember domain names than complex numerical IP addresses.

When a user enters a domain name into their web browser, the DNS process is triggered, which queries various DNS servers until it finds the right IP address associated with that domain name. This allows the user's device to connect to the appropriate server hosting the desired website or service. The efficiency and reliability of the DNS framework enable seamless navigation across the vast network of the internet.

The other options refer to concepts that do not accurately represent the functioning of DNS. For example, Distant Network System, Dynamic Network Service, and Digital Network Security do not pertain to the role of translating domain names into IP addresses, highlighting why they do not fit the correct definition of DNS.