NAT vs. PAT: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 13, 2023
NAT (Network Address Translation) translates IP addresses from a local network to the internet, while PAT (Port Address Translation) translates both IP addresses and port numbers.
Key Differences
NAT, standing for Network Address Translation, is a method used in networking to modify IP address information in IP packet headers, typically as the traffic travels from a private network to a public one. On the other hand, PAT, which stands for Port Address Translation, takes this a step further by also translating port numbers.
The primary purpose of NAT is to allow a single public IP address to represent multiple private IP addresses, effectively hiding an entire IP address space, usually consisting of private IP addresses, behind a single IP address in another, often public, address space. PAT, conversely, allows multiple devices on a local network to share a single public IP address but differentiates the traffic by changing the source port numbers.
NAT is a fundamental technique commonly utilized to deal with the shortage of IPv4 addresses, allowing multiple devices within a private network to share a single public IP address. PAT, as a type of NAT, is particularly useful for situations where multiple devices need to access external resources simultaneously, such as browsing the internet.
A significant distinction is that while NAT focuses on translating IP addresses, PAT emphasizes translating the combination of IP addresses and port numbers. Therefore, through PAT, multiple devices can have their traffic sent and received through the same public IP, but they are distinguished by their unique source port numbers.
In terms of application, NAT is typically seen as the broader concept under which PAT operates. While all PAT operations involve some form of NAT, not all NAT operations involve PAT. It's essential to understand the differences and nuances between NAT and PAT when designing or troubleshooting network architectures.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Network Address Translation
Port Address Translation
Primary Function
Translates IP addresses
Translates IP addresses and port numbers
Use Case
Sharing a single public IP for multiple devices
Multiple devices accessing external resources simultaneously
Differentiation Method
Based on IP addresses
Based on IP addresses and source port numbers
Type
A broader networking concept
A subset of NAT
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NAT and PAT Definitions
Nat
NAT stands for Network Address Translation.
With NAT, our local network devices can share a single public IP address.
Pat
PAT allows simultaneous external access for multiple devices.
All household devices can access the internet at once, thanks to PAT.
Nat
NAT allows for private IP address spaces.
Thanks to NAT, we can use private IP ranges like 192.168.0.0/16.
Pat
PAT stands for Port Address Translation.
PAT ensures that our numerous devices can use one public IP when browsing the internet.
Nat
NAT facilitates communication from private to public networks.
Devices on our private network can access the internet due to NAT.
Pat
PAT differentiates traffic by altering source port numbers.
PAT distinguishes my laptop's traffic from my tablet's by changing their source ports.
Nat
NAT is utilized to conserve IP addresses.
Because of the scarcity of IPv4 addresses, NAT becomes essential.
Pat
PAT translates both IP addresses and port numbers.
Because of PAT, my computer and phone can have distinct sessions with the same external server.
Nat
NAT operates at the network layer.
NAT functions by modifying packet information at the network layer.
Pat
PAT is a type of NAT.
While PAT involves NAT principles, it further includes port number translation.
Nat
A spirit in Burmese mythology, whose cult is followed alongside Buddhism.
Pat
To tap gently with the open hand or with something flat.
Nat
A logarithmic unit of information or entropy, based on natural logarithms.
Pat
To stroke lightly as a gesture of affection.
Nat
(obsolete) Not.
Nat
Not.
Nat
Not at; nor at.
FAQs
What does "Nat" stand for?
"Nat" often stands for Network Address Translation, a method of remapping IP addresses.
How is "Nat" pronounced?
"Nat" is pronounced as [nat], rhyming with "cat."
Can "Nat" be a name?
Yes, "Nat" can be a short form or nickname for Nathan or Natalie.
Is "Nat" an acronym or initialism?
It can be an acronym when referring to Network Address Translation.
Is "Nat" a common English word?
No, "Nat" is typically used in technical contexts related to networking.
Is "Pat" commonly used in English?
Yes, "Pat" is commonly used as both a name and a verb.
Can "Nat" be plural?
No, "Nat" as an acronym isn’t used in a plural form.
What does "Pat" mean?
"Pat" is both a verb meaning to lightly touch, and a common nickname for Patrick or Patricia.
What is an example sentence with "Nat"?
"The router uses Nat to translate the private IP addresses to a public IP address."
How do you spell "Nat"?
N-A-T
What is the verb form of "Pat"?
"To pat" means to touch something lightly and repeatedly.
How do you use "Pat" in a sentence as a verb?
"She patted the dog gently on the head."
Can "Pat" be used metaphorically?
Yes, like in the expression “to have something down pat,” meaning to know something perfectly or thoroughly.
How do you spell "Pat"?
P-A-T
Is "Nat" used in everyday conversation?
No, "Nat" is primarily used in specific, often technical, contexts.
How is "Pat" pronounced?
"Pat" is pronounced as [pat], rhyming with "cat."
Is “Pat” an abbreviation?
Not typically, though "Pat" can be short for names like Patrick or Patricia.
Can "Nat" be used as a verb?
No, "Nat" is generally not used as a verb.
Can "Pat" be a name?
Yes, "Pat" can be a short form or nickname for names like Patrick or Patricia.
Can "Pat" be an adjective?
Yes, “pat” can describe a timely or apt action, as in “a pat response.”
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
