   A gateway is either hardware or software that acts as a
bridge between two networks so that data can be transferred
between a number of computers. For example, when you send an
e-mail to a friend or when you log in to a Web site, there is a
gateway that allows the connection take place. Often, your
connection to a Web site will involve many smaller connections
to other servers along the way. In these cases, a number of
gateways are used.  In a completely unrelated story, Gateway is
also the name of a popular direct-order PC manufacturer.  Tech
Factor: Category: Internet Terms