H3C Technologies H3C SecPath F1000-E - Manual (Page 587)

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Multicast overview
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, real-time video conferencing, and
other bandwidth-critical and time-critical information services.
The term "router" in this document refers to both routers and firewalls that run IP routing protocols.
Unless otherwise stated, the term "multicast "in this document refers to IPv4 multicast.