Enabling new multicast distribution architectures through the introduction of IGMP/MLD proxy with multiple upstream interfaces

The deployment of IGMP/MLD proxy functionality in telecom networks is now common from long, with clear engineering and operational rules. Existing IGMP/MLD proxy implementations are limited to a single upstream interface, then receiving all the multicast traffic through that interface in a well-defined manner. However this mode of operation seems to not be enough for enabling some appealing multicast distribution cases. Such new service scenarios rise the need of extending the proxy functionality by enabling the support of multiple upstream interfaces, at the cost of imposing the support of more functionality in the element acting as a proxy. The paper introduces the use cases of interest and overviews the additional functionality required to evolve next generation of IGMP/MLD proxies in this direction. Future directions on the standardization of this solution are also provided.