At a glance:
- Erika-Fisch-Stadion previously lacked an internet infrastructure
- htp and swissnet deploy a new Wi-Fi solution for major event
- 11 outdoor access points ensure comprehensive event Wi-Fi
- Speed test confirms around 480 Mbit/s, remote maintenance included
- Infrastructure remains permanently in place for future events
Initial situation: A stadium without a network
The Erika-Fisch-Stadion is one of the venues for the "Finals 2026" in Hanover. From July 23 to 26, top athletes will compete here in the German Championships for Rugby Sevens and Flag Football. The stadium is part of the major "Finals 2026" multi-sport event, which encompasses around 23 sports across various locations throughout Hanover. Public broadcasters ARD and ZDF will be broadcasting live on all four days. An event of this scale places high demands on the local technical infrastructure. Especially crucial: a stable and high-performance Wi-Fi network.
The starting point was as follows: Up to that point, no internet infrastructure had been installed in the stadium. No network, no connection, no groundwork to build upon. For a classic athletics stadium with a manageable building area and extensive open spaces, this is not an unusual situation. However, for a multi-sport event with media partners, streaming requirements, and several thousand visitors on peak days, it is a real challenge.
This is exactly where htp and swissnet stepped in. They didn't just want to create a temporary solution for four days of events. Their goal was a solid, future-proof Wi-Fi solution for events. It needed to meet the high demands of media representatives such as ARD and ZDF, the press, the athletes, and up to 2,000 visitors, while also being built to last.
htp and swissnet as a well-coordinated duo
This project was made possible by the close cooperation between two partners. As a long-standing regional internet provider, htp provided the existing fiber-optic connection of the City of Hanover and contributed its proven hotspot product, including a custom landing page. swissnet took over the Wi-Fi planning, equipment provision, and on-site project management.
As a result, the City of Hanover did not have to coordinate multiple contacts and service providers individually. swissnet managed the technical implementation, while htp simultaneously ensured the connection to the existing fiber-optic network. Both sides worked hand in hand, without anyone having to worry about interfaces.
htp and swissnet have been working together for a long time and are familiar with each other's working methods, which paid off in this project as well.
The technical solution: Thought through to the last detail
Fiber-optic connection and bandwidth
The heart of the solution is the City of Hanover's existing fiber-optic connection with a bandwidth of around 500 Mbit/s. htp uses this line to provide a white-label hotspot solution. Visitors can easily log in. To ensure a fair and stable connection for all users, the bandwidth per client was deliberately limited. This measure ensures a good user experience even with many simultaneous connections.
Outdoor access points for comprehensive Wi-Fi
A total of 11 outdoor enterprise access points were installed for comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage. These were strategically distributed across the grandstand and the surrounding open areas:
- On the grandstand itself, several access points ensure stable connections in the spectator area.
- Additional access points on the masts and peripheral areas cover the open spaces around the playing field.
- The number of devices was intentionally planned with a capacity buffer. This ensures reliable usage even on peak days with up to 2,000 visitors.
Remote maintenance for fast response times
The solution is complemented by a switch and a firewall, both of which ensure a secure and stable network architecture. A key advantage of this solution is that it can be monitored and adjusted remotely as needed. Should any issues arise during the event, a technician does not necessarily need to be on-site. Changes and checks can be performed remotely, ensuring short response times and additional security throughout the entire event.
Efficiently planned, quickly implemented
A project of this nature relies on good coordination. This is especially true when multiple work areas must interlock, such as network planning, technical equipment, and on-site structural implementation.
Thanks to well-established processes and close, continuous coordination between all parties involved, the project was completed quickly and on schedule.
Existing conduits as a basis for planning
Before installation, it had to be determined whether the existing underground conduits and cable ducts were fully usable. An optimal network can only be built to individual locations if the cable paths are clear. Therefore, the routes were checked on-site before the final positions of the access points were determined. On this basis, the placement could be adapted to the structural conditions.
When it came to cabling and mounting the devices, coordination between the various trades was crucial. Step by step, the Wi-Fi infrastructure was created, which now ensures capacity, stability, and coverage in the stadium.
The result: Impressive performance
The final on-site functional test demonstrated just how resilient the new infrastructure is. The speed test on the internet line confirmed that the connection is working as planned and that the intended capacity is reliably available. The access points themselves were also individually tested for functionality, signal transmission, and connection stability.
The City of Hanover was very satisfied with the result of the collaboration. A stadium with no existing network structure has been transformed into a modern, high-performance Wi-Fi and internet solution that meets the highest standards. The Erika-Fisch-Stadion is now optimally equipped. During the 2026 Finals, media representatives, the press, and visitors will have reliable access to Wi-Fi and the internet for live reporting, streaming applications, and everyday mobile browsing in the stands.
Sustainable added value for Hanover
The Wi-Fi infrastructure is not just intended for the four days of the event. It remains permanently installed and is available to the City of Hanover for future events at the Erika-Fisch-Stadion. What began as a short-term requirement has become a long-term investment in Hanover as a sports and event venue.
htp and swissnet have worked together frequently and are familiar with each other's processes. This was evident in this project as well, as the collaboration proceeded without any major delays from initial planning to final acceptance.
