DNSimple vs Network Solutions:
Which One Is Right for You?
DNSimple and Network Solutions both provide domain registration and DNS hosting, but they are built for very different types of users. If you want modern automation, transparent pricing, and fast, human support, choose DNSimple. If you prefer traditional registrar services with a manual setup process, choose Network Solutions.
Let’s take a closer look.
DNSimple vs Network Solutions at a Glance
| Feature | DNSimple | Network Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Domain registration, DNS hosting, and SSL automation. | Legacy domain registrar and hosting provider. |
| Ease of Use | Modern, intuitive interface designed for developers and teams. | Outdated dashboard with complex navigation. |
| Automation | REST API, Terraform provider, and webhooks for full automation. | Manual domain and DNS management with limited API access. |
| Pricing | Transparent, flat-rate subscription plans. | High renewal rates, hidden fees, and upsells for basic features. |
| Security | DNSSEC, SSL automation, and fine-grained access controls. | Basic DNSSEC support, SSL sold separately and managed manually. |
| Support | Responsive, human support included in every paid plan. | Slow, ticket-based support focused on account issues and sales. |
| Performance | Global Anycast DNS network with fast propagation and uptime. | Standard DNS hosting tied to legacy infrastructure. |
| Ideal For | Developers, SaaS teams, and enterprises that value automation and reliability. | Customers with legacy domains or long-standing accounts. |
The Core Difference
DNSimple: Modern DNS and Domain Management for Today’s Internet
DNSimple provides a fast, reliable, and automation-ready platform for managing domains, DNS, and SSL certificates. It’s built for modern teams that expect clear pricing, strong APIs, and dependable human support. Everything is designed to make domain management simple, not stressful.
Network Solutions: Legacy Systems for Traditional Domain Management
Network Solutions is one of the oldest domain registrars on the internet. It offers basic domain registration, DNS, and hosting, but much of the experience feels outdated. Tasks that are automated elsewhere—like DNS updates or SSL renewals—require manual steps here.
If you value automation and efficiency, DNSimple is the clear evolution of what Network Solutions started decades ago.
Support: The Human Touch That Matters
The difference in support quality between DNSimple and Network Solutions is significant.
- DNSimple: Every customer on a paid plan gets direct access to real human support. The DNSimple team is developer-focused, technically skilled, and quick to respond.
- Network Solutions: Support operates primarily through tickets and phone queues. Wait times can be long, and responses often come from generalized support agents, not DNS experts.
If you want reliable, fast, and knowledgeable help, DNSimple offers the personal touch that Network Solutions lacks.
Automation and Efficiency
Modern businesses rely on automation to scale. DNSimple was built for that reality.
- DNSimple: Automate DNS record changes, domain registration, SSL renewals, and account management through its REST API, Terraform provider, and webhooks.
- Network Solutions: Focuses on manual processes and web forms. Automation is minimal, making it harder for developers and teams to manage multiple domains or complex infrastructures.
If you want to integrate DNS management into your DevOps workflow, DNSimple gives you the flexibility to do it.
Reliability and Security
Both providers offer stable DNS services, but DNSimple brings modern security and performance standards.
- DNSimple: Uses a global Anycast network for fast, redundant DNS resolution. Includes DNSSEC, SSL automation, and role-based access control for enterprise safety.
- Network Solutions: Provides DNS on legacy infrastructure, with optional DNSSEC and manual SSL certificate management.
DNSimple gives you the confidence that your domains are secure, automated, and always up to date.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose DNSimple if you want:
- Automated DNS, domain, and SSL management.
- Predictable, transparent pricing.
- Developer-friendly APIs and integrations.
- Responsive human support from DNS experts.
- A modern platform built for reliability and scale.
Choose Network Solutions if you want:
- A legacy registrar with long-standing operations.
- Manual control over DNS and domains.
- A familiar provider you have used for many years.
The Bottom Line
DNSimple and Network Solutions both offer DNS and domain registration, but they represent different eras of the internet. Network Solutions is a legacy provider that still requires manual effort for most tasks. DNSimple is built for today’s teams—automated, reliable, and supported by real people who care about your success.
If you want DNS and domain management that just works, DNSimple is the better, faster, and more personal choice.