MGM Resorts Launches Upgraded Convention Wi-Fi Network

November 17, 2017
MandalayBayConventionCenterExpansion_Aerial-View-400

Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

Enhancing the meetings and convention experience in Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International has partnered with Cisco Systems and Mobilitie, LLC to upgrade and double its wireless infrastructure.  The largest, technologically advanced system in the industry is the first in-house, high-density Wi-Fi network able to support Cisco Live, a high-level, tech-intensive company event.

To accomplish this, MGM Resorts’ technology partners — the country’s leading providers of wireless infrastructure for high-capacity venues who have proven experience in deploying dynamic, customer-centric Wi-Fi service on a large scale — designed, provided and installed the high-performing wireless network.  As we know, not all Wi-Fi is created equal and now this latest technology is available throughout all MGM Resorts destinations’ meeting and convention spaces in Las Vegas (except Circus Circus) and features new equipment, increased high-density coverage and faster download speeds.

Meeting planners will appreciate the value of this new network, offering superior service that will save them time and money.  With a cutting-edge system already in place, planners will not need to pay for an outside contractor, product shipping costs, as well as extra labor to install the equipment, decreasing move-in time by up to 40 percent.  Monitoring and support are provided 24/7 by Mobilitie to ensure guests stay connected.

Groups also can enjoy seamless, contiguous coverage and connectivity with the same Wi-Fi experience when traveling from any MGM Resorts destination along the Las Vegas Strip.  Cross-property use on one high-density network, allowing attendees to stay logged in for up to 72 hours, makes for a convenient, satisfying experience.

An Extraordinary Digital Experience at Cisco Live

After the recent installation of the new wireless upgrades, Cisco put them to the test during Cisco Live, among the largest global tech-driven conventions.  With approximately 30,000 participants, the group held meetings and events at several MGM Resorts destinations — Bellagio, MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay. As a strategic partner and customer, Cisco experienced the convenience that the system delivers to large groups with sophisticated technology needs. Thousands of users with multiple devices spanning multiple resorts were able to utilize the Wi-Fi at the same time without affecting performance.

“Our attendees at Cisco Live expect fast and reliable connectivity to the wireless network, and with the solution that MGM Resorts installed, we were confident in utilizing the in-house infrastructure rather than bringing in our own like we typically do for an event of this size,” according to Sean Curtis, director of Technology Experiences at Cisco.  “The result was the biggest and one of the most successful Cisco Live events we’ve ever produced. Our customer experience is critical to the success of this event, and the seamless, fast Wi-Fi access across multiple properties strengthens their confidence and trust with Cisco, the Cisco Live event, and future conventions and events.”

Michael Dominguez, senior vice president and chief sales officer for MGM Resorts, said, “Technology is a key component of most meetings and can have a dramatic impact on the delivery of a successful program. No one else in the hospitality industry offers the caliber of Wi-Fi, wireless services and capabilities now available at our Las Vegas resorts. Cisco Live was a true test, and the smooth implementation demonstrated what we are able to offer all customers, on any scale.”

Mobilitie CEO Christos Karmis attributes the success to a solid partnership with MGM Resorts.  “We collaborate closely with their executive team when it comes to expanding and improving the network. It’s because of this ongoing relationship we’re able to provide exactly what guests and visitors expect. MGM Resorts makes their visits unforgettable.”

New Customizable Program Support for Planners

A highly experienced MGM Resorts Meeting Innovations Team has been created as a one-stop shop, providing meeting planners with comprehensive, worry-free technology solutions across the company’s diverse portfolio of integrated resorts. This team takes the stress out of creating everything from the simple to the most complex, custom-tailored programs including bandwidth, branding and sponsorship options. With a team designing dedicated Wi-Fi made to order, groups can rest assured that their wireless experience will meet their individual group needs and ever-evolving expectations.

The destination-wide convention space upgrades complement the Wi-Fi system available throughout the resorts’ low-rise public spaces — including pools, casinos, lobbies and restaurants.  MGM Resorts’ new Wi-Fi system is poised to define the future of wireless internet experiences at resort destinations by addressing rapidly changing business demands through unique Wi-Fi services.

MGM Resorts convention space Wi-Fi upgrade fast facts:

  • All new, upgraded high-performance equipment with over 2,600 next-generation Cisco
  • Aironet Access Points, nearly doubling the previous amount
  • Convention Wi-Fi network can support over 350,000 devices
  • Customizable, seamless Wi-Fi experience with bandwidth, branding and sponsorship options across all MGM Resorts properties in Las Vegas (except Circus Circus)
  • Up to 40 times more guaranteed bandwidth per user
  • Almost 50 percent faster download
  • Load-in time up to 40 percent faster
  • Cisco CleanAir technology combats against wireless interference
    Cisco Live

— First time Cisco has ever used an in-house Wi-Fi system because this is the only one able to accommodate the high-level, complicated needs
— Largest attendance ever: 30,000
— Total number of devices used: 35,500
— Multi-property event: Bellagio, MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay, all utilizing the same integrated Wi-Fi system

www.mgmresorts.com

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