IP anycast is a network addressing and routing methodology that allows IP addresses to be announced from multiple points on the internet. In the context of DNS, IP anycast describes how multiple nameservers will have the same IP address and respond to a DNS query made to that address, ensuring that the user always connects to the closest server for performance and availability.
Elevate your DNS security and performance using our powerful edge platform
How Edge DNS works
New Features
Akamai Shield NS53 is a reverse proxy solution that protects on-prem and hybrid DNS infrastructure — including GSLBs, firewalls, and nameservers — from resource exhaustion attacks. Customers can self-configure, manage, and enforce their own dynamic policies in real time.
Features
- Enable the use of a logical name server on multiple physical servers deployed worldwide
- Use a bidirectional reverse proxy service that protects your on-prem and hybrid DNS assets from resource exhaustion (NXDOMAIN) attacks
- Protect DNS from attackers exploiting vulnerabilities and risks such as source address spoofing
- Prevent attacks caused by DNS forgery with Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC)
- Allow developers to automate Edge DNS through APIs and existing management tools
- Prevent IP address spoofing attacks by prioritizing workflow for trusted recursive nameservers
- Leverage a unique architecture that segments DNS resources across non overlapping clouds
- Gain actionable insights and analytics on peacetime and under-attack DNS infrastructure performance
Customer Story
Learn how Akamai’s DNS security assists with these specific needs.
End-to-end protection
Comprehensive DDoS protection
Edge DNS provides you with the scale and capabilities for normal operation, even when high-volume incidents are occurring, delivering nonstop availability of web applications and APIs. It also provides zone apex mapping and integrated traffic management with a 100% uptime SLA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Resources

Free trial: Try Edge DNS/Shield NS53 for 30 days
Discover the benefits of Edge DNS or Shield NS53 for yourself:
- Nonstop DNS availability, guaranteed
- Protect your on-prem and hybrid DNS assets
- chieve peace of mind with secondary DNS
Set up your 30-day free trial:
- Submit form
- Confirm your email
- Pass Akamai’s validation and vetting process
- Receive login instructions
- Log in and set up your instance of Edge DNS or Shield NS53
Terms and restrictions apply