New approach to inter-domain multicast protocols

Abstract

IPTV broadcast channels and video content distribution are increasingly saturating network paths. New solutions based on inter-domain multicast protocols could contribute to the enhancement of multimedia content distribution over the Internet. The aim of this paper is to propose new capabilities for an existing inter-domain multicast protocol, the Protocol Independent Multicast-Sparse Mode. We describe the modified protocol and analyze its behavior using newly developed tools based on an open-source software simulator. The resulting protocol does not require topology information, which is advantageous for easier deployment. In addition, the adopted solution avoids inherent problems with interdomain multicast routing, such as multiple paths and path asymmetries. © 2011 ETRI.