Dig into Domain Name Servers 🌐

Before we get into DNS, let’s cover some ground topics first. We know that humans are affiliated with names while computers are affiliated with numbers. Here’s an example to make you understand better. We identify each other by names like Yash, Riya, etc. Computers, similarly, identify each other by numbers called IP Addresses. The IP (internet protocol) address is a unique number for each device or network connected to the internet.

When we go onto a search engine, say Google, we simply type in a few letters for the website we want to be directed to, and Google takes us there. These letters that we type in are the web address of that website. It is important to understand the parts of this address before we delve into the topic of DNS. Below is an image that illustrates the same.

Now, let’s say that you want to search for youtube.com on the internet. The ‘.com’ of this link is called the top-level domain name. These webpages can even be accessed by typing in the IP address of that website into the search engine. However, as discussed earlier, humans are more well-versed with names, and it would be difficult to memorize the IP address of every single website.

To bridge the gap between names and numbers, there exists a system called Domain Name System, or in short, DNS. We can pretty much compare DNS to a phone book.

When you wish to find the number of a particular friend, you look for their name in the phone book rather than their number. Similarly, DNS translates domain names to IP addresses so browsers can load Internet resources. The process of DNS resolution involves converting a hostname (such as www.example.com) into a computer-friendly IP address (such as 192.168.1.1).

So, let’s get deep into DNS now. When you search for youtube.com, your computer will start searching for its IP address in its cache memory. But if it fails to find it, your query will be redirected to a resolver server, i.e., your internet service provider. Let us assume that even the resolver could not find the IP address. It will then redirect the query to the root server. This is the topmost level of the DNS hierarchy. There are 13 sets of root servers across the world. It will either directly answer requests for the address, or it will redirect the resolver to approach the top-level domain server (TLD).

There are as many TLD nameservers as there are TLDs. At present, that number totals 1,514, according to the overall domain name and IP address administrator, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). A specific entity administers each TLD nameserver. It is necessary to note that some administrators manage more than one TLD.

Earlier in this newsletter, we learned that the top-level domain name could be .com, .org, .in, etc. The TLD server that the resolver approaches will be the one that is affiliated with the top-level domain name of the webpage you were searching for, in this case, youtube.com. The TLD server will direct the resolver to the final server, which is the authoritative name server. It contains all the information about that domain, including the IP address.

1. There are two types of authoritative name servers: Master server (primary name server) – which stores copies of all zone records. All slave servers maintain an identical copy of the master records.
2. Slave server (secondary name server) – This is the replica of the master server. It is used to share DNS server load and to improve DNS zone availability in case the master server fails. It is recommended to have at least 2 slave servers and one master server for each domain name.

Once the query reaches the authoritative name server, it will then send back the IP address to the resolver which will then go back to the computer you are working on. And now, your computer will be showing you the youtube.com page. Hooray!

Another interesting thing to know is that the resolver stores these IP addresses that it receives from the servers so that if you were to ever send the same query again, it wouldn’t have to go through all those steps of finding the IP address. In cases where no such webpage is found, it returns an error.

There are also certain alternatives to DNS:

• OpenNIC: Some browsers, like Firefox, allow configuration to use specific OpenNIC DNS resolvers, enabling access to websites registered with their alternative TLDs.
• ZeroNet: Websites hosted on ZeroNet are accessible through special ZeroNet clients, not standard browsers.

While alternatives to DNS offer intriguing benefits like decentralization and increased privacy, widespread browsing using them is still in its early stages. It requires specialized tools and isn't a seamless replacement for the current DNS system just yet.

To summarize, this DNS system starts with minimal information, i.e., just the webpage address. It retrieves all the data after requesting multiple servers and then gives you your desired output. It serves as the backbone of the internet, translating user-friendly domain names into machine-readable IP addresses.

Understanding Flipper Zero 💻

In the world of portable hacking tools, Flipper Zero has emerged as a unique and versatile device. Initially developed as a playful nod to the Tamagotchi era, Flipper Zero has quickly gained popularity among tech enthusiasts, red team hackers, and penetration testers for its wide array of functionalities.

Now, what exactly is this Gameboy-looking device? Flipper Zero is a handheld device designed for interaction with access control systems. It boasts a range of capabilities, including reading, copying, and emulating RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and NFC (Near Field Communication) tags, radio remotes, iButton keys, and digital access keys. The device features a GPIO interface, adding to its versatility. It was first introduced in August 2020 through a Kickstarter campaign, raising an impressive $4.8 million.

One of Flipper Zero's unique features is its interface, which resembles retro games.

How does this Flipper zero- a hacker’s fantasy – exactly work? Does it possess some magical powers? Unfortunately, no.

Flipper Zero is equipped with various antennas that enable it to capture, store, clone, and emulate wireless signals. It supports several signal types, including NFC, 125kHz RFID, infrared, and Sub-1 GHz frequencies. These capabilities allow Flipper Zero to interact with a wide range of devices and systems, making it a versatile tool for hackers and security professionals alike.

For instance, Flipper Zero possesses the remarkable ability to emulate hotel keys via near-field communication (NFC), seamlessly deceiving compatible door systems into recognizing its copied keys as authentic.

The versatility of Flipper Zero makes it a valuable tool for a variety of applications. Some common uses include testing car key fobs, reading/saving/emulating NFC and RFID tags, bypassing sentry safe security, acting as a universal infrared video controller, automating scripts, and serving as a signal generator.

The Flipper Zero has safety features to prevent illegal activities, but users must use it responsibly and avoid tampering with devices or systems without permission. It's a powerful tool, so caution is necessary to prevent misuse and serious consequences. Ethical behaviour is crucial among its users.

In conclusion, Flipper Zero is a powerful tool with many capabilities. While it can be used for legitimate purposes, its potential for misuse underscores the importance of responsible use and adherence to legal and ethical standards. By understanding how Flipper Zero works and taking precautions to prevent misuse, users can leverage its features effectively and ethically.

The Next Big Idea 💡

In a groundbreaking development, researchers at the City University of Hong Kong have unveiled a pioneering invention poised to revolutionise the virtual reality (VR) landscape. Termed a 'novel, wireless, skin-interfaced olfactory feedback system', this innovative technology aims to introduce olfactory sensations into the realm of virtual experiences.

The essence of this technology lies in its ability to integrate smells seamlessly into the VR environment. By utilising odorous wax that can be heated and melted to emit adjustable concentrations of scents, users are offered a multi-sensory experience unlike any other.

Researchers have designed two distinct versions of this technology to cater to various user preferences and applications. The first version is a compact attachment, conveniently mounted on the upper lip, granting easy access to the nostrils. The second version takes the form of a facemask-like apparatus with a wide range of odour combinations.

This revolutionary technology extends beyond entertainment, promising benefits in areas like online education and 4D cinema experiences. With the addition of scents, users will gain a heightened sense of immersion, enriching both entertainment and learning environments.

Likewise, Virtual reality technology now incorporates scents, opening up possibilities beyond entertainment. Applications include online education, 4D cinema experiences, and interactive culinary experiences. With reduced, wireless interfaces, users can engage with scents as vividly as sights and sounds.

As we look towards the future, it's clear that the convergence of virtual reality and olfactory feedback represents a significant leap forward in human-computer interaction. The journey towards truly immersive virtual experiences has taken a decisive step forward, thanks to the pioneering efforts of the researchers at City University of Hong Kong.

Recommendations And Reviews 📚

Codewars is a popular website that provides a platform for developers to improve their coding skills. The website offers a variety of coding problems, known as katas, that are designed to enhance specific aspects of coding such as code reusability, readability, and refactor friendliness.

Users can work on these katas to practice and improve their coding abilities. One of the most significant benefits of Codewars is that it provides an environment where users can push themselves beyond their current abilities, demonstrating their true potential as developers.

This can help build self-confidence and encourage users to take on more challenging coding projects. Another advantage of Codewars is that it offers mentorship opportunities. Experienced coders have the chance to share their knowledge by providing high-quality solutions or even creating new katas, while also being able to review other people’s code submissions.

This fosters a sense of community and encourages users to engage with each other, leading to active discussions among members. One user testimonial mentioned becoming "accidentally hooked" on Codewars due to its engaging nature.

In conclusion, Codewars is an excellent resource for developers looking to improve their coding abilities. With its variety of katas, mentorship opportunities, and engaging community, Codewars provides a platform for users to practice and improve their coding skills while building self-confidence and fostering a sense of community.