(1) A device that converts one protocol or format to another. A network gateway converts packets from one protocol to another. An application gateway converts commands and/or data from one format to another. An e-mail gateway converts messages from one mail format to another. See IP gateway, proxy server, cable/DSL gateway, default gateway, media gateway, NAS gateway, wireless gateway, messaging gateway, signaling gateway, WAP gateway, softswitch, EGP, BGP and IGP.
(2) A device that acts as a go-between two or more networks that use the same protocols. In this case, the gateway functions as an entry/exit point to the network. Transport protocol conversion may not be required, but some form of processing is typically performed. See proxy server.
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