DNSSEC signs the zone. DNSKEY holds KSK (257) and ZSK (256). The parent DS record binds those keys.
No record means DNSSEC is off, which is common and valid. On without DS means a broken chain.
The algorithm number (e.g. 13 ECDSA P-256, 8 RSA/SHA-256) is the signature type. Without a parent DS, signatures cannot be validated and browsers may fail the name.
Frequently asked questions
Is DNSSEC required?
No. But if it is on and DS/DNSKEY disagree, the name can fail completely.
KSK vs ZSK?
KSK (flag 257) binds to DS; ZSK (256) signs zone records. Rollovers are planned separately.
How do I know DNSSEC is on?
DNSKEY plus parent DS means the chain is built. DNSKEY alone is not enough.
I want to turn DNSSEC off
Remove DS at the registrar first, then DNSKEY. The reverse order can take the name down briefly.
Which algorithm is recommended?
ECDSA P-256 (13) or ED25519 (15) are modern and compact. RSA 2048 is still common.