Episode 44: PAT — Port Address Translation and Overload NAT

This episode focuses on Port Address Translation (PAT), often called overload NAT, which extends NAT by allowing multiple devices to share one public IP using different port numbers. PAT is critical for conserving address space and is widely used in both home and enterprise networks. On the exam, you must be able to distinguish PAT from standard NAT and recognize how it functions in practical scenarios.

The episode provides examples of how PAT enables hundreds of devices on a private network to access the Internet simultaneously, with translations tracked by port assignments. Troubleshooting is also addressed, including identifying when too many connections overwhelm translation tables or when applications fail due to reliance on specific ports. By mastering PAT, you’ll be able to explain its role, identify it in exam questions, and manage its behavior in real networks. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your certification path.