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Multicast overview
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 bandwidth-critical and
time-critical information services. These services include live webcasting, Web TV, distance learning,
telemedicine, Web radio, and real-time video conferencing.
Information transmission techniques
The information transmission techniques include unicast, broadcast, and multicast.
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
In Figure 1, 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 unicast transmission, the traffic transmitted over the network is proportional to the number of hosts
that need the information. If a large number of hosts need the information, the information source
must send a separate copy of the same information to each of these hosts. Sending many copies
can place a tremendous pressure on the information source and the network bandwidth.
Unicast is not suitable for batch transmission of information.
Source
Receiver
Receiver
Receiver
Host A
Host B
Host C
Host D
Host E
Packets for Host B
Packets for Host D
Packets for Host E
IP network
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