Dictionary · Networking Fundamentals
Multicast
Delivery · Intermediate
Delivery from one sender to a subscribed group. Only devices that join the group should process the traffic, which is more efficient than copying it to everyone.
Instead of sending a separate copy to every listener, the network forwards group traffic to members. Video distribution and some routing protocols use it.
Example: Several conference displays join the same group so one video source can reach all of them.
Common misconception
- A group address does not mean every device on the Internet receives the traffic. Membership is controlled.