# Networking  ### Terminology * **Network Address Translation (NAT)**: Allows many devices on a private network to share a single gateway to the internet. All of these devices will have the same **public IP address**-that of the **gateway**-and a unique **private IP address**. * **Port**: A port is a virtual point where network connections start and end. Ports are software-based and managed by a computer's operating system. Each port is associated with a specific process or service. Software "listens" for traffic on the port. Port identifies which application should deal with request. * **Port Forwarding**: Port forwarding, sometimes called port mapping, allows computers or services in private networks to connect over the internet with other public or private computers or services.  ### Mechanics... When you visit a website, your device sends a request to the router, identifying itself with its private IP address. The router then translates the request and forwards it to the website’s server with its public-facing IP address, making a note of the originating private address. The server replies to the router with a copy of the website, which your router then forwards on to your device via the private IP address. --- Date: 20211103 Links to: [Computer Science MOC](Computer%20Science%20MOC.md) Tags: References: * [What is a NAT firewall](https://www.comparitech.com/blog/vpn-privacy/nat-firewall/) * [What is port forwarding?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAbM0CnZzp4) * [What is port forwarding? article](https://learn.g2.com/port-forwarding)