> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.console.zenlayer.com/glossary/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.console.zenlayer.com/glossary/g/gateway.md).

# Gateway

In networking, a gateway is a device or software component that connects two or more networks with different communication protocols. It acts as a bridge between the two networks, allowing them to communicate with each other.

A gateway may be a physical device, such as a router or a switch, or a virtual component, such as a software program or a virtual machine. It often serves as an entry point or an exit point to a network, enabling communication between devices on the local network and devices on other networks, such as the internet or a remote private network.