NAT Explained

Network Address Translation (NAT) allows multiple devices on a private network to access the internet through one public IP address.

How it works

Your router replaces private source addresses with its public address for outbound traffic and tracks return connections in a translation table.

Benefits

• Conserves public IPv4 space
• Adds a basic layer of obscurity for home devices
• Simplifies ISP addressing models

Limitations

NAT can complicate inbound connections, peer-to-peer applications, and some gaming or VoIP setups without port forwarding.