Final answer:
DNS (Domain Name System) is the protocol used to convert host names and domain names into IP addresses, enabling browsers to load the correct web pages.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Application Layer protocol used for converting host names and domain names into IP addresses is DNS (Domain Name System). DNS (Domain Name System) is the protocol used to convert host names and domain names into IP addresses, enabling browsers to load the correct web pages. The DNS is a hierarchical decentralized naming system for computers, services, or any resource connected to the Internet or a private network.
Its main function is to translate more readily memorized domain names to the numerical IP addresses needed for locating and identifying computer services and devices with the underlying network protocols. When you type a web address into your browser, DNS servers take that domain name and translate it into the corresponding IP address so your browser can load the correct page.