H3C Technologies H3C WX6000 Series Access Controllers - Manual (Page 307)

28-1
28
Multicast Overview
z
This manual chiefly focuses on the IP multicast technology and device operations. Unless
otherwise stated, the term “multicast” in this document refers to IP multicast.
z
The term “switch” in this document refers to a switch in a generic sense or an access controller
configured with the switching function unless otherwise specified.
Introduction to Multicast
As a technique coexisting with unicast and broadcast, the multicast technique effectively addresses the
issue of point-to-multipoint data transmission. By allowing high-efficiency point-to-multipoint data
transmission over a network, multicast greatly saves network bandwidth and reduces network load.
With the multicast technology, a network operator can easily provide new value-added services, such
as live Webcasting, Web TV, distance learning, telemedicine, Web radio, real-time videoconferencing,
and other bandwidth- and time-critical information services.
Comparison of Information Transmission Techniques
Unicast
In unicast, the information source sends a separate copy of information to each host that needs the
information, as shown in
Figure 28-1 .