IPFS stands for InterPlanetary File System, a protocol that allows for the storage and sharing of files in a decentralized way. An IPFS gateway acts as a bridge between traditional web users and the IPFS network. When you access a file stored on IPFS via a gateway, you enter a URL that points to the content you want. The gateway retrieves the file from the IPFS network and serves it through a conventional web interface. This means that people who may not understand or use IPFS can still access content seamlessly.IPFS gateways are essential because they facilitate easy access to decentralized data without needing to run an IPFS node. They help distribute the content across a wide range of users, improving availability and redundancy. However, using a public gateway can introduce limits in terms of privacy and security, as users rely on third-party services to access IPFS content. In summary, IPFS gateways enable easier access to the decentralized web by acting as intermediaries between users and IPFS-hosted files.