HP VPN Firewall Appliances Network Management Configuration Guide

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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.
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 routing-capable firewalls.
Unless otherwise stated, the term "multicast" in this document refers to IP multicast.