Key Points
- 7,000 switches will deploy to 26 properties including 12 casinos and 18 racing venues after the 2026 Kentucky Derby.
- Cisco Catalyst Center enables zero-touch provisioning and centralized policy automation for all sites.
- Integration with Splunk Observability Cloud cuts security alert validation from 40 hours to 2 minutes.
What is changing
According to a report from NetworkWorld, Churchill Downs is executing a full network refresh via a new partnership with Cisco, its official enterprise networking partner. The venue will deploy more than 7,000 switches across 26 properties, including 12 regional casinos and 18 racing venues, shortly after the 2026 Kentucky Derby on May 2. The network supports 170,000 to 180,000 peak Derby Day attendees with sub-second latency for real-time wagering.
All properties will consolidate network management in Cisco Catalyst Center for zero-touch provisioning, which automatically configures new devices without manual intervention, and orchestrated rolling upgrades. The deployment also integrates Splunk Observability Cloud to monitor wagering platforms and applications, with automated response to disable compromised accounts. It replaces legacy coaxial television distribution with centralized IP-based delivery to thousands of displays.
Why it matters
This shift matters most to network engineers and IT staff at large enterprises with variable user demand or recent acquisitions. These teams often face challenges unifying disparate legacy networks while keeping mission-critical systems like real-time wagering or point-of-sale platforms online during peak loads.
Teams can replicate CDI’s approach to cut operational overhead, with Cisco citing up to 80% improvement in support ticket efficiency. The practical lessons apply to any organization scaling quickly or managing extreme peak demand, such as retail chains or conference venues, not just gaming companies.
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