The gateway converts data from one protocol or format to another. This is necessary because organizations often use protocols other than the Internet on their local networks.
Due to the lack of competitors in TCP/IP, the network gateway often becomes synonymous with the router. The gateway connects networks, and the router usually delivers data within the network. Their functions are increasingly combined. For example, a Wi-Fi router is both a data delivery router and a gateway that converts that data to destination devices.
How does the network gateway work?
The physical network gateway includes inputs/outputs, network interface cards (NIC), and software for translating network protocols.
The gateway is typically used at the network level of the OSI model, but can theoretically be deployed at any level. Stand-alone or virtual gateways can be located anywhere in the network where data translation is required. Such gateways can transmit data to and from the network or only in one direction.
Network Gateway Features
The gateway provides network security by supporting limited access to specific applications, scanning, and filtering data.
It must be configurable and programmable to work with various network protocols. This will allow for greater flexibility, security and fault tolerance.
As the gateway often is the only connection between networks, it becomes the place for monitoring and the analysis of network activity: helps with collection of information from other parts of network, participates in diagnostics and troubleshooting.