Lessons from Streetathon: A Professional Guide to Event Network Deployment

The recently concluded Hong Kong Streetathon 2025 experienced significant delays in baggage reclamation due to unstable on-site Wi-Fi, leaving some runners unable to find their belongings immediately. This incident has sparked widespread discussion on social media and sounded a wake-up call for all event planners: In the era of digital transformation, robust network infrastructure is no longer just a 'bonus', it is the mission-critical backbone that dictates the success or failure of any major event."

Network Pain Points in Large Outdoor Events: Why Is the Signal Always Lost?

In fact, many event organisers in Hong Kong have shared similar experiences: the network works perfectly during rehearsals, but the system suddenly paralyses once the crowds arrive on the event day. This is typically attributed to two major technical issues:

1. Spectrum Congestion

A massive influx of participants simultaneously uploading photos and videos to social media or cloud album occupies public network bandwidth. This prevents staff devices from connecting to cloud servers or causes severe latency.

2. Interference Issues

Interference Issues: The surge in wireless devices on-site (e.g. walkie-talkies and wireless microphones) can easily interfere with Wi-Fi signals, rendering connections extremely unstable.

HKT Provides One-Stop Network Support Solutions for Mega Events

To address these issues, enterprises must adopt a higher level of network deployment. Leveraging our experience in supporting world-class events like the Hong Kong Sevens and Formula E, HKT provides Three core guarantees for large-scale outdoor events:

1. Priority Dedicated Lane: 5G Private Network

A solution that completely separates "public traffic" from "operational data."

Technical Principle: Utilising 5G Network Slicing technology, we can carve out an independent, protected dedicated data channel for the event.
Practical Application: No matter how intensely the audience floods social media with posts, the event's baggage scanning system, crowd management system and POS payment machines can operate stably on this dedicated channel, achieving low-latency and high-reliability transmission.

2. True System Redundancy and Stress Testing

When hosting large-scale events, a "Plan B" should not just be a slogan but a technically verified configuration.

Stress Test: Before the event, we conduct environmental simulations to test the system's capacity under high concurrent traffic, identifying potential breaking points.
Multiple Redundancy Mechanisms: HKT provides a "5G + Fiber" dual connectivity insurance policy. When wireless signals are physically obstructed (e.g. by severe weather or large obstacles), the system can automatically and seamlessly switch to the wired broadband network, ensuring uninterrupted service.

3. High-Density Wi-Fi Deployment

For media sections, VIP zones, or staff command centers, standard router APs often fail to handle high-density connectivity.

Our enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 6/7 base stations are designed for scenarios with tens of thousands of users. They feature stronger anti-interference capabilities and load-balancing functions, ensuring every critical device receives stable bandwidth.

Network Stability is the CORE of the Large-Scale Event Experience

A perfect large-scale event's on-stage brilliance often depends on backstage stability. In this digital age, choosing an ICT provider with robust infrastructure and rich practical experience is the wisest decision for every event planner.

Do not let network issues become the regret of your event. Contact HKT immediately to safeguard your next event.