Optus, Cisco connect for the Games

Optus Business and Cisco have joined forces to implement a dedicated smart network for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018).

The high-speed network will span the GC2018’s 37 locations, such as operational, command and sporting venues, for use by officials, athletes and spectators.

Optus developed the standalone, carrier-grade network using 426 kilometres of Optus fibre, while Cisco’s infrastructure underpins the integrated communications solution.

Following a competitive tender process, Optus was awarded a contract to deliver and manage the system for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Organising Committee (GOLDOC).

“The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games will demonstrate what Optus has to offer — including our ability to design, build and operate the leading technology supporting an event on the global stage,” said  Optus Business Managing Director John Paitaridis.

“We are proud that the GOLDOC has entrusted Optus to deliver and manage the technology that will deliver the GC2018 to a worldwide audience.”

Around 6600 athletes will have access to free Optus-provided Wi-Fi in the Games Village.

GC2018’s officials advised on the locations which would be the most used by athletes so that special Cisco access points could bolster connectivity.

To manage the system, Optus has placed a dedicated team in the Optus Gold Coast Delivery Hub, with key Cisco technical experts also embedded to work alongside the Optus experts.

International and local television networks will use Optus’s services to upload and share footage, with many networks now relying on cloud-based transfer for fast, secure delivery to spectators who are internationally tuning in.

Video streaming — which accounted for 75% of all internet traffic in 2017 — is a critical component of the networks’ offering.

“Connectivity and data sharing at large-scale events, such as the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, has become an expectation for spectators,” said Cisco Vice President, Australia & New Zealand Ken Boal.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Optus to deliver digital capabilities for the largest sporting event Australia will hold this decade.”

Image credit: ©iStockphoto.com/Berc

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