Lec-20: Unicast, Broadcast & Multicast in Computer Networks

Lec-20: Unicast, Broadcast & Multicast in Computer Networks

Types of Casting in Computer Networks

Introduction to Casting Types

  • The discussion begins with an overview of the types of casting in computer networks, specifically unicasting, broadcasting, and multicasting.
  • Emphasis is placed on understanding these concepts for theoretical questions in exams like UGC NET and GATE.

Unicasting

  • Unicasting is defined as one-to-one communication where data is sent from one host to another.
  • An example illustrates a scenario where host M1 sends data to host M2 within a network (e.g., 90.0.0.0).
  • This type of communication is commonly used for sending messages directly between two users.

Broadcasting

Limited and Direct Broadcast

  • Broadcasting is explained as having two types: limited broadcast and direct broadcast.
  • Limited broadcast targets all hosts within a specific network segment using the address 255.255.255.255.
  • Direct broadcast allows messages to be sent to all devices across different networks by using a specific direct broadcast address.

Multicasting

Definition and Functionality

  • Multicasting involves sending messages to multiple recipients who are part of a specific group rather than broadcasting to everyone.
  • It’s likened to targeted messaging, such as news broadcasts aimed at particular audience groups.

Protocol Usage

  • The Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) facilitates multicast communications, particularly utilizing Class D addressing for group management.