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A Network Address Translation

A Network Address Translation (NAT) server allows multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address for internet communication, conserving IP addresses and enhancing security. It translates private IP addresses and port numbers, enabling simultaneous use by multiple devices. There are different types of NAT, including Static NAT, Dynamic NAT, and Port Address Translation (PAT), each serving specific mapping functions.

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Ishan Vyas
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13 views1 page

A Network Address Translation

A Network Address Translation (NAT) server allows multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address for internet communication, conserving IP addresses and enhancing security. It translates private IP addresses and port numbers, enabling simultaneous use by multiple devices. There are different types of NAT, including Static NAT, Dynamic NAT, and Port Address Translation (PAT), each serving specific mapping functions.

Uploaded by

Ishan Vyas
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

A Network Address Translation (NAT) server, often a router or firewall, enables multiple devices on a

private network to share a single public IP address when communicating with the internet. This
mechanism conserves public IP addresses and provides a degree of security by hiding the internal
network's structure.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

What it does:

 IP Address Translation:

NAT translates private IP addresses (used within a local network) into a public IP address (used on
the internet) when devices send traffic outwards.

 Port Mapping:

It also translates port numbers, allowing multiple devices to use the same public IP address
simultaneously.

 Security:

NAT can mask the internal network's structure from the outside world, making it harder for
unauthorized users to access specific devices.

How it works:

1. 1. Internal Device Request:

A device on the private network (e.g., a computer, smartphone) sends a request to the internet.

2. 2. Translation at NAT Server:

The NAT server, acting as a gateway, intercepts the request. It replaces the source IP address and port
with its own public IP address and a unique port number.

3. 3. Forwarding to Destination:

The translated packet is then forwarded to the internet.

4. 4. Response Handling:

When the destination sends a response back, the NAT server uses its translation table to map the
response back to the correct internal device.

Types of NAT:

 Static NAT: Maps one private IP address to one public IP address.

 Dynamic NAT: Maps a pool of private IP addresses to a pool of public IP addresses.

 Port Address Translation (PAT): Uses port numbers to allow multiple devices to share a
single public IP address.

In essence, a NAT server acts as a translator and gatekeeper, facilitating communication between
private and public networks while also potentially enhancing security.

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