NSD (Name Server Daemon)

nlnetlabs.nl · checked 29 Sept 2026

#4 · DNS Server Software

Visit nlnetlabs.nl ↗ Alternatives NSD (Name Server Daemon) vs dnsmasq

How it plugs in

—Public API

NoOpen source

YesFree tier

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NSD is an authoritative DNS name server designed for speed, reliability, stability, and security.

Pricing

NSDFree of charge · open source · BSD licenseFree

As nlnetlabs.nl lists them, checked 29 Sept 2026.

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Facts

Website: nlnetlabs.nl
Price: Free tier
Free trial: No
Community support: Community support is best effort through the NLnet Labs forum, while the project commits to fixing security issues and software bugs.
Current release: The download page lists NSD 4.15.2 as the current version, dated 02 September, 2026.
Founded: 1999
Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Intended users: The project identifies TLD operators, DNS root servers, and others needing a fast authoritative name server as suitable users.
Maintainer: NSD is developed and maintained by NLnet Labs, a non-profit Public Benefit Organisation.
No recursive caching: NSD does not implement recursive caching; NLnet Labs points users needing a validating recursive caching resolver to Unbound.
Performance: The project says NSD is designed for high query rates and includes simdzone, a high-performance DNS presentation format parser.
Professional support: Paid support contracts offer direct access to the development team at different service levels; pricing is available by contacting Open Netlabs.
Protocol features: The 4.15.2 release notes list EDNS0 padding support with DNS over TLS, additional RR types and SVCB service parameter keys, and PROXYv2 access control options.
Security: NSD is covered by a security patch policy, and the project publishes security advisories and security reporting information.
Standards: NSD aims to serve as a reference implementation for emerging IETF standards and implements accepted RFCs according to their specifications.

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