Networking
Connect unlike networks or mediate services, policies and traffic flows.
Era1970s-present
Architecture / focusProtocol and security boundary
What to compare
Compare generation, intended workload, performance, energy use, expandability, software support and total maintenance needs. Product names alone rarely identify every important compatibility difference.
Compatibility and security
Treat gateways as high-value assets with logging, redundancy and strict administration.
Reference note: Specifications and support status can vary by exact model, release, board revision and vendor policy. Verify critical decisions with the manufacturer or project documentation.