Episode 23: Public vs. Private IP Addressing and NAT
In this episode, we explore the difference between public and private IP addresses and the role of Network Address Translation (NAT) in connecting internal devices to the internet. You’ll learn which IP address ranges are reserved for private use and why they can’t be routed on the public internet. We also discuss why NAT was developed and how it extends the life of IPv4 by allowing multiple devices to share a single public IP address.
We cover different types of NAT—static, dynamic, and PAT (Port Address Translation)—and how they are used in both home and enterprise networks. You’ll also learn the security implications of NAT and how it interacts with firewalls and routing. Whether you’re configuring a home router or a corporate firewall, understanding NAT is essential for managing connectivity and address usage effectively.
