In computer networking terms, any method by which a user can access the resources of one online network while being connected to another. A subscriber of CompuServe, for instance, may also access resources on the Internet, or Medline, while maintaining an account and connection only with CompuServe. Gateways can simplify life for the user because there is only a single entry point that needs to be learned and maintained, yet access to resources is limited only by the number of gateways the service provider makes available.