root@thehacksparrow:~/writeups$ SYSTEM ONLINE
root@sparrow:~/writeups$ cat dnsrecon.md
// recon

DNSrecon

22 Jul 2026 · 2 min read

DNSrecon is a terminal-based DNS enumeration tool that gathers detailed information about a domain via queries, brute forcing, and zone transfers. Widely used in pentesting and OSINT to discover subdomains and insecure configurations.

TypeCLI
PlatformKali / Linux
DNSrecon cheat sheet

Basic commands

CommandWhat it does
dnsrecon -d domain.comStandard domain enumeration (A, AAAA, MX, NS, TXT, SOA...)
dnsrecon -d domain.com -D /usr/share/wordlists/dnsmap.txt -t brtSubdomain brute force
dnsrecon -d domain.com -t axfrZone transfer (jackpot if the DNS is misconfigured)
dnsrecon -d domain.com -t srvSRV record enumeration
dnsrecon -d domain.com -t rvl -aReverse lookup (PTR)

What it detects

  • AXFR zone transfers (if the server is misconfigured)
  • DNS wildcards
  • PTR reverse zones
  • SRV records

Typical result

  • Discovered subdomains (www, mail, dev, api...)
  • TXT records (sometimes with keys or sensitive info)
  • Exposed DNS servers
  • Possible AXFR (very critical)

Responsible use

These commands are for systems you own or have explicit written authorisation to test (labs, CTFs, contracted engagements). Using them against third-party infrastructure without permission is illegal in most countries.