Azure Virtual Network NAT (Network Address Translation) is a service that enables outbound connectivity for virtual networks. It allows virtual machines (VMs) in a virtual network to access the internet without public IP addresses. NAT simplifies outbound connectivity for VMs by translating their private IP addresses to a public IP address.
Outbound Connectivity: NAT enables VMs in a virtual network to access the internet for software updates, package downloads, and other external services without requiring public IP addresses on the VMs themselves.
Security: NAT helps secure your virtual network by hiding the private IP addresses of VMs from external sources. Only the public IP address of the NAT gateway is exposed to the internet.
Cost-Effective: NAT reduces the need for public IP addresses on individual VMs, which can help lower costs associated with IP address management.
Scalability: NAT can handle high volumes of outbound traffic from multiple VMs in a virtual network, providing scalable outbound connectivity for your applications.
Ease of Management: NAT simplifies outbound connectivity configuration by providing a centralized service for translating private IP addresses to a public IP address.