Optus rolls out Cisco SD-WAN implementation for HOYTS

Optus has implemented a new SD-WAN solution for cinema chain HOYTS’ network, bringing in additional resiliency and security features.

Part of an ongoing digital transformation project that started in 2016, the telco implemented Cisco’s Catalyst SD-WAN solution for HOYTS’ network, spanning 59 cinemas in Australia and New Zealand.

Optus also said it led the domiciling of data centres and a complete re-architecture of HOYTS’ existing network to include dual fibre and 4G redundancy.

Additionally, the telco brought in Cisco Umbrella cloud security for round-the-clock vulnerability assessment and response.

Optus claims that as a result of the implementation, HOYTS has seen a “significant” advance in network uptime and internet performance with connection improvements of 20 times combined with redundant hardware.

The new SD-WAN is used alongside a myriad of other solutions from Optus, including the usage of 2,500 SIMs from the telco in the cinema chain’s advertising arm Val Morgan’s digital out-of-home advertising network Val Morgan Outdoor (VMO) to manage and schedule content for over 10,000 screens.

VMO also uses Optus’ IoTFlex offering, a self-managed connectivity service that enables companies to connect, manage and control communications between devices at the internet of things (IoT) edge and application services in the cloud and on premises.

Optus’ latest work with HOYTS comes weeks after the telco signed a multi-year partnership with Cisco, as announced in early July, to offer network security and data security services for its enterprise and business customers.