You're looking at an older version: 1
The current (published) version is 2I propose to add testing of multicast connectivity between the RIPE NCC Test Traffic boxes that are connected to multicast-capable networks.
The test setup could consist of the following components:
a. Arguments supporting the proposal:
The RIPE NCC Test Traffic boxes form a very useful measurement platform, distributed over a large number of provider networks.
IP Multicast monitoring is inherently difficult, as you cannot easily probe connectivity from a single point of view - some problems need testing and monitoring from multiple different locations to identify "black holes" on some paths.
When troubleshooting connectivity issues spanning multiple networks, things are a lot easier if a neutral entity does the monitoring and pinpointing of problem areas.
I think the RIPE NCC Test Traffic network is uniquely qualified to do this.
b. Arguments opposing the proposal:
Some arguments have been brought forward that there are not enough multicast-capable networks to make this a worthwile action.