What is the main function of NAT?

The main function of Network Address Translation (NAT) is to allow the efficient use of IP addresses by enabling the use of both public and private IP addresses within a network. NAT operates by modifying the IP address information in the headers of packets while they are in transit across a routing device.

When devices on a local network communicate with external networks, NAT translates the private IP addresses used internally to a public IP address that is used on the internet. This helps conserve public IP addresses, as multiple devices can share a single public IP when accessing the internet. Additionally, by using private IP addresses within the network, organizations can maintain a level of security since the internal addressing scheme is not exposed externally.

The other options detail functions that do not accurately represent the primary purpose of NAT. They involve aspects like domain management, traffic routing, and internet speed optimization, which are distinct from the address translation capabilities that NAT provides.