An application-level multicasting architecture that enables multiple nodes to interact in real time with data packets that are routed based on information about the connection states between the nodes is provided. Each node shares their connection states with other nodes in the same interactive session. The data packets may be routed in the application level using multiple packet transport protocols that are available on the sending node. A particular transport protocol may be selected based on a Quality of Service (QoS) requirement of the data packet. Nodes in the interactive session may relay data packet to other nodes according to a routing map that is created based on the connection states. The application-level multicasting architecture may be implemented for any multiparty interactive application, such as an application for videoconferencing, multiplayer games, distance learning, virtual meeting, and voice communication.
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