Nov 10 / Tuesday
Spectrum Center Upgrades To WiFi 7, Making Charlotte Hornets AmongThe NBA’s First Teams To Deploy Next Generation Technology
Installation of WiFi 7 by Spectrum Marks a Milestone in Venue Innovation and Guest Experience
November 10, 2026 – Hornets Sports & Entertainment (HSE) and Spectrum today announced the installation of WiFi 7 as part of Spectrum’s Managed WiFi solution within Charlotte’s recently renovated Spectrum Center, marking the first-ever deployment of the technology for Spectrum in an NBA arena nationally and positioning the Charlotte Hornets among the first NBA teams to bring fans the next generation of wireless connectivity.
WiFi 7 means faster speeds, lower latency, the ability to support more devices, and greater coverage ensuring that guests, fans and staff can seamlessly connect during games, concerts and events. Spectrum Center now features nearly 550 WiFi 7 access points throughout the arena, providing seamless connectivity for every seat and space.
“Technology is at the heart of how we deliver unforgettable experiences to our guests, and we’re proud to partner with Spectrum on this groundbreaking installation,” said HSE Chief Information Officer Ronnie Bryant.“With Spectrum’s WiFi 7, we’re not only enhancing connectivity inside our arena, we’re investing in our fans while setting a precedent for how sports and entertainment venues can leverage innovation to engage fans in new and exciting ways. This is yet another example of our organization’s fans-first focus.”
The installation of WiFi 7 underscores Spectrum Center’s commitment to innovation and the guest experience, following its recent two-phased renovations that modernized the arena with cutting-edge amenities and enhanced digital infrastructure. Game-changing benefits of WiFi 7 within Spectrum Center include:
- Seamless Arena-Wide Coverage: From the Event Level to the Belk Concourse to the Novant Health Suite Level to the Uptown Concourse, WiFi 7 enables seamless connectivity everywhere. WiFi 7’s efficiency supports massive device density, ensuring fast, stable connections for fans, artist teams and media simultaneously.
- Frictionless Guest Engagement: Guests gain near‑instant access to interactive apps, live streaming, and immersive experiences, elevating event participation and enjoyment.
- Enhanced Safety and Venue Monitoring: WiFi 7 strengthens the ability to keep guests safe, with faster alerts, smarter monitoring and seamless communication across the arena.
- Unprecedented Speed and Bandwidth: WiFi 7 delivers 320 MHz channels, 4K QAM modulation, and Multi‑Link Operation (MLO), unlocking multi‑gigabit speeds and exceptional performance.
“Fans will experience seamless connectivity for their Spectrum Center services including ticketing, food and beverage orders, guest access to suites, real time video feeds (up to 8k) and more,” said Deidre Jordan, Vice President, Vertical Market Sales, Spectrum Business. “The beginning of the NBA season is perfect timing to introduce WiFi 7 technology, ensuring everyone is connected at a whole new level and setting a new bar in the NBA.”
The installation of WiFi 7 is part of Spectrum Center’s broader transformation – dating back to the arena’s October 2025 re-opening after a two-phase renovation – which includes:
- A more modern and open design, with new seating and gathering areas
- Enhanced food and beverage options with an increased number of grab-and-go markets
- State-of-the-art LED and digital displays throughout the arena
- Advanced systems (building automation, sound, video surveillance and more)
- Smart security and guest access innovations, including Evolv technology and Amazon-powered solutions
- Interactive tech-forward partnership portals throughout the arena
Together, these improvements reinforce Spectrum Center’s reputation as a leader in technology and fan engagement, ensuring every visit delivers a connected, dynamic and unforgettable experience.