NAT
Network Address Translation (NAT) is a networking technique that remaps one IP address space into another by modifying network address information in IP packet headers while they are in transit across a traffic routing device. It enables multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address for internet access, conserving IPv4 addresses and enhancing security by hiding internal network structures. NAT is commonly implemented in routers, firewalls, and other network gateways.
Developers should learn NAT when working with network configurations, cloud deployments, or security implementations, as it is fundamental for connecting private networks to the internet and managing IP address scarcity. It is essential for scenarios like setting up home or office networks, configuring virtual private networks (VPNs), and implementing network security policies in cloud environments such as AWS or Azure.