Multicast Overview; Introduction To Multicast; Comparison Of Information Transmission Techniques - HP A5500 SI Switch Series Configuration Manual

Multicast overview

NOTE:
This document focuses on the IP multicast technology and device operations. Unless otherwise stated,
multicast
the term

Introduction to multicast

As a technique that coexists with unicast and broadcast, the multicast technique effectively addresses the
issue of point-to-multipoint data transmission. By enabling high-efficiency point-to-multipoint data
transmission over a network, multicast greatly saves network bandwidth and reduces network load.
By using multicast technology, a network operator can easily provide new value-added services, such as
live webcasting, web TV, distance learning, telemedicine, web radio, realtime video conferencing, and
other bandwidth-critical and time-critical information services.

Comparison of information transmission techniques

Unicast
In unicast transmission, the information source must send a separate copy of information to each host
that needs the information.
Figure 1 Unicast transmission
Source
Packets for Host B
Packets for Host D
Packets for Host E
In Figure 1, assume that Host B, Host D and Host E need the information. A separate transmission
channel must be established from the information source to each of these hosts.
in this document refers to IP multicast.
IP network
Host A
Receiver
Host B
Host C
Receiver
Host D
Receiver
Host E
1