Client Connection Methods
WinGate offers three separate and distinct methods of connection. They are:
- NAT (Network Address Translation)
- WGIC (WinGate Internet Client)
- Proxy
The decision regarding which one you choose is very important. Here is an overview of them all:
NAT
NAT stands for Network Address Translation. It signifies the translation of an IP address used within one network, to a different IP address known within another network (e.g. the internet). Although subtly different, this service is also sometimes described as ENS (Extended Network Support).
Click here to find out more about how NAT works.
Click here to configure clients to use NAT.
- Pros:
NAT provides fast and seamless low-level sharing of a connection to the internet.
It is the simplest approach to sharing an internet connection. Because it does so little, there isnt much that can go wrong it is very reliable.
It is also extremely flexible as it gives access to shared connection for any platform that supports TCP/IP (e.g. Windows, Mac, Unix, Linux) and virtually any client application (web browsers, mail programs, newsgroups, FTP etc.)
There is no software to install and no applications to configure.
Easy integration with proxies.
- Cons:
Because NAT is implemented as a low-level driver, there may occasionally be some compatibility problems with some hardware.
- Conclusion:
For many, NAT is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited to large LANs where you dont want to install software and/or configure applications on many different machines.
WGIC
WGIC stands for WinGate Internet Client. This is a separate piece of software installed on every computer on the network except for the server (which has GateKeeper installed).
Click here to find out about Installing the WinGate Internet Client.
- Pros:
Provides tight control over users Internet usage and allows the efficient running of server applications.
Versatile
Compatible for a wide array of network games.
Provides an elegant way for users to authenticate for Internet usage. It can be configured so the user has to enter username and password the first time they access the internet; ideal for tracking and recording purposes.
- Cons:
-
You have to install client software.
Only supports Windows machines.
- Conclusion:
If you have a small to medium sized LAN of Windows clients, we recommend using the WGIC.
Proxy
(Click here to find out how to configure Proxy Connections)
The normal meaning of the word proxy is someone who does something on behalf of someone else, e.g. voting by proxy. The Internet use of the word has the same meaning but refers to a software program. WinGate does things on behalf of other software programs.
Specifically, WinGate makes Internet requests to Internet servers on behalf of Internet clients. It basically acts as an intermediary between a workstation user and the Internet so that the enterprise can ensure security, administrative control and a caching ability.
It is important to remember that WinGate does the proxy work, not GateKeeper. The WinGate Internet Client (WRP-based) and General Purpose Internet Sharing (NAT-based) have decreased the importance of proxies. You may still choose to use proxies to exert per-service control over policies, however the advent of transparent redirection means that there is nothing you can do with proxies that you now cannot do with the other two connection methods.
- Pros:
Allows you the greatest control over data passing through your network. Although, with transparent direction, these benefits are now available through NAT and WGIC.
- Cons:
Works only for existing protocols.If a new protocol is devised, you cant use it.
Proxies interfere more with data traffic. It has more potential for mistakes.
- Conclusion:
Because transparent redirection provides the NAT and WGIC with all the benefits of proxies there will be very few occasions when you will need to use a proxy directly.
Note:
It is possible to integrate the three connection methods. Click here for details of how to do this.
