A gateway can be implemented completely in software, hardware, or a combination of both.

It connects the devices in your home or small business with the internet.

A gateway is the most important feature of a router.

Network and internet communication concept. 3d illustration.

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Routers are the most common throw in of gateways.

This has become increasingly less common as dial-up access declines in popularity.

Gateways as Protocol Converters

Gateways are web link protocol converters.

Two coloured ropes knotting together

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Often the two networks that a gateway joins use different base protocols.

The gateway facilitates compatibility between the two protocols.

Depending on the types of protocols they support, connection gateways can operate at any level of theOSI model.

A wireless gateway functions as a modem and a router and includes a Wi-Fi access point.

To ping the gateway is to send a signal testing internet connectivity.