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.