An MLD proxy is typically used for multicast IPTV on IPv6 Internet connections. Clients or IPTV set top boxes (STBs) on the local network send MLD messages to receive a specific TV channel. To this end, they join certain multicast groups and later leave them again. The router and/or MLD proxy receives the MLD messages and forwards them to the provider network and filters the groups, if required. The MLD proxy works for the local network with its clients.
An MLD proxy can also be used in simple multicast routing scenarios, for example via VPN, without having to use PIM. The configuration of the MLD proxy creates a static (tree) structure without alternative paths, redundancy or loop prevention. MLD proxies can be "cascaded" by connecting multiple routers in series.
In LANconfig, you configure the MLD proxy under via MLD proxy.
- Downstream interface
- Interface name used by MLD clients to join groups and receive MLD messages from the proxy. Possible values are IPv6 networks, e.g. INTRANET, IPv6 (WAN) remotes or RAS templates. For provider-based IPTV scenarios, the local network, e.g. INTRANET, must be configured here.
- Upstream interface
- Interface name used by the MLD proxy to send messages on behalf of clients. The source of the multicast messages must be reached via this interface. Possible values are IPv6 networks, e.g. INTRANET and IPv6 (WAN) remotes. For provider-based IPTV scenarios, the WAN remote site, e.g. INTERNET, must be configured here.
- Group filter
- Name of the group filter that is to apply to this proxy. References the table IPv6 filter lists under . By default, the filter entry is blank or points to the filter list "ANY", which allows all multicast groups. The group filter can be used to restrict the multicast groups available for clients.
