A multicast protocol for high speed local area networks

Abstract

High speed local area networks encompass the new network generation based on fiber technology. Multicasting is common in computer communications and introduces several specific issues. Among them is the implosion problem which can severely degrade the network performance if no appropriate steps are taken. A protocol which reduces the implosion problem is presented. It is partially based on a negative acknowledgment policy. It responds to the needs of HSLN by being simple and not requiring out of bandwidth messages to coordinate among the destinations. The results show a large reduction of the implosion problem and hence improvement of overall network utilization.