What does NAT stand for?

NAT stands for Network Address Translation. This is a fundamental technology used in computer networking that allows multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address when accessing external networks. By modifying the IP address information in the packet headers as they pass through a router or firewall, NAT enables devices within a local network to communicate with devices on the internet while conserving the number of public IP addresses needed.

This method is especially crucial for enhancing security and managing the limited availability of IPv4 addresses. It allows internal network structures to remain invisible to the external world, adding a layer of security by not exposing private IP addresses. NAT is widely utilized in home routers and enterprise networks, making it a significant concept in networking and IT support.