Network Security

Gateway

Primary definition

An intermediate system (interface, relay) that attaches to two (or more) computer networks that have similar functions but dissimilar implementations and that enables either one-way or two-way communication between the networks. Source: IETF RFC 4949 Ver 2

Also known asnetwork gateway · GW · default gateway · router gateway · internet gateway
4 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
— Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015View source

Understand more election terms clearly

Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.

Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
CNSSGC

An intermediate system (interface, relay) that attaches to two (or more) computer networks that have similar functions but dissimilar implementations and that enables either one-way or two-way communication between the networks. Source: IETF RFC 4949 Ver 2

Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015 · 2024

Cite this term

Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Gateway. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/gateway

Sources

4 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026

01

Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015

High consensus

View source

02

March 2020 CSC Report
March 2020 CSC Report

Multi-source

View source

03

EAC Information Technology Terminology
EAC Information Technology Terminology

Multi-source

View source

04

The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary

Disputed

View source

Related terms

See all in Network Security →
Standards
Interface

Common boundary between independent systems or modules where interactions take place.

Election Administration
Relay

A relay is a system acting as an interim station for the provision of a service. In connection with malware and spam, relays are used to con…

Infrastructure
Domain Name System

The system by which Internet domain names and addresses are tracked and regulated as defined by IETF RFC 1034 and other related RFCs.

Election Administration
Virtual Private Network

Protected information system link utilizing tunneling, security controls, and endpoint address translation giving the impression of a dedica…

Get the weekly election term

Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.

Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.
Continue Research

Keep going from here

Three ways to go deeper on network security and adjacent terminology.

Browse Network SecurityExplore letter G