What does DNS resolve to?

DNS, or Domain Name System, functions primarily to translate human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses. When a user enters a website name in their browser, DNS servers take this domain name and resolve it to the corresponding IP address, which is necessary for locating and accessing the required resources on the internet.

The resolution of domain names to IP addresses is essential for the functioning of the internet, as devices communicate using IP addresses rather than hostnames. This translation process enables seamless navigation and connectivity across the vast network that comprises the internet.

In the context of the other options, while DNS is indirectly involved with network protocols and server names, its primary role is specifically tied to IP addresses. MAC addresses, which are used for network interface identification at a local level, are not resolved by DNS. Thus, understanding DNS's core function emphasizes its capability of mapping domain names to IP addresses, solidifying the correctness of the provided answer.