What is Network Address Translation?
Network address translation (NAT) is a dynamic method of consolidation used by systems in order to minimize Internet connectivity needs. Specifically, network address translation describes the rewriting of the Internet Protocol (IP) addresses of data packets so that multiple transmissions require only one IP address. The rewriting takes place as the data passes through a network or a network firewall. This is done on a private network. In addition to the firewall, companies also use routers or even computers to perform network address translation functionality. Network address translation commonly takes one of four forms: Static NAT, Dynamic NAT, Overloading, or Overlapping. Static NAT is translating one unregistered IP address to another, registered one. Dynamic NAT is translating one unregistered IP address to another chosen from a group of registered addresses. Overloading is a form of Dynamic NAT that translates a series of unregistered addresses to one registered one. Overlapping
