What does NAT stand for in networking?

NAT stands for Network Address Translation, which is a key function in networking that allows for the modification of network address information in IP packet headers while they are in transit across a traffic routing device. This process is crucial in enabling private networks to connect to the internet or other external networks. By translating private IP addresses into a single public IP address, NAT conserves the number of IP addresses needed and enhances security through hiding internal IP addresses.

In many scenarios, NAT also facilitates the mapping of multiple private IP addresses to a single public IP address or a few addresses, enabling a network to share a singular public-facing identity while managing multiple devices internally. This technology plays an essential role in modern networking, especially with the ongoing depletion of available IPv4 addresses.

The other choices refer to concepts that are not standard terms used in networking. Network Application Technology, Network Allocation Table, and Network Access Technology do not correspond to widely recognized networking protocols or methodologies like Network Address Translation does.