Getting connected at the ski resort, sounds like a dream come true. We can all probably admit that we often have an expectation for Wi-Fi availability at most places we go – our hotels, coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centers and more. Now, Wi-Fi is popping up in the places we would have ruled out for connectivity several years ago. Places like golf courses, campgrounds, marinas and ski resorts. This is catching on quickly. It is becoming a necessity to offer Wi-Fi at ski resorts and this is largely due to the fact that modern technology can allow it.
The rise The Internet of Things (IoT) has opened the door to not only connectivity everywhere, but data that allows us to make better decisions. There are apps available today that allow skiers to compare lift line times and identify their location on a trail map. While the concept of complete connectivity is quickly catching on, there are still challenges to overcome. For example, Wi-Fi signals can be limited in strength; especially in snow-packed, rugged outdoor environments at ski resorts where temperatures are consistently well below the freezing-point.
Connectivity at the Ski Resort
Because the majority of their operations are outdoors, ski resorts require a rugged Wi-Fi option. This is true for all outdoor Wi-Fi applications – whether it’s a campground, marina, golf course or any other outdoor-based business. Each will face challenges due to varying landscapes and weather extremes. These businesses looking to bring connectivity to customers need to find a shorthaul solution that is rugged and secure enough to remain connected in the most extreme elements. They also need to enable high-speed, high throughput application solutions.
In addition bringing connectivity to ski resorts – we’ve seen increased adoption of industrial Wi-Fi networks for security programs and disaster response. For the skiing industry, this may be beneficial to avalanche and rescue teams. With the added ability to track skiers on the mountain, as well as send targeted warning or emergency alert messages across the network, resorts would have an additional tool in the arsenal to facilitate safety measures across wide areas. Having reliable Wi-Fi during emergency communications, especially high-speed Voice, Video, Data and Sensor (VVDS) data transport, can help ensure secure lines of communication during emergency or disasters. Additionally, resorts can leverage the secure network from VVDS enabled Wi-Fi to increase resort security.
The Rugged Solution
Solutions are available today that will help ski resorts stay connected. These types of technologies are used every day in highly industrial environments like oil and gas, water/wastewater and even by the military. They function in the most remote, volatile, exposed environments. Now, they can be used in innovative ways to bring connectivity to ski resorts.
Whether a ski resort wants to offer Wi-Fi to guests so they can better access their skiing apps and GPS, or if it’s to create a secure communication link for emergencies and rescue efforts – these solutions are designed to ensure connectivity. They offer robust, secure transport of VVDS information over rugged, shorthaul communication networks for edge devices and outdoor assets. They are specifically designed for outdoor Wi-Fi connectivity that has been tested and proven in extreme weather and environmental conditions.
