Prime time streaming surge: How Vocus delivered during the Paul - Tyson fight last weekend

By Jonathan Gleeson OAM, General Manager Technology Operations

This past weekend, one particular streaming service saw an unprecedented surge in demand. It turns out the combined star power of Mike Tyson and Jake Paul can really pack a digital punch!

At Vocus, we’re proud to operate the retail IP network that powers Dodo and Primus internet services and our goal is to help customers enjoy high-quality streaming experiences. We achieve this by partnering closely with content delivery networks (CDNs) and streaming platforms, integrating their networks directly with ours. This collaboration ensures content is brought closer to users for faster, more reliable delivery.

To make this possible, we host what’s known as edge servers within our network. These servers cache content locally, so when users stream a movie—or, in this case, a highly anticipated sporting event—they’re pulling it from a nearby CDN rather than a distant data centre. This setup can help with smooth playback and aims to minimises buffering, even during the most demanding moments.

With strategically placed caches in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, Vocus delivers premium entertainment to Australians with speed and reliability and during the weekend’s big event, streaming demand peaked at nearly 1 Tbps - almost three times the typical peak traffic.

This record-breaking milestone highlights the importance of a robust network architecture and strong CDN partnerships, especially during events that capture the nation’s attention. At Vocus, we’re constantly innovating to meet and exceed user expectations, ensuring our customers never miss a moment of the action.

Streaming isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating connections and delivering content people love and we’re proud to make it happen.

Jonathan Gleeson OAM, General Manager Technology Operations

Jonathan Gleeson, General Manager Technology Operations, Wholesale & Infrastructure

Jonathan has more than 20 years experience in the telecommunications and technology industry and is currently General Manager Technology Operations. His team of technical and operational specialists oversee Vocus' IP and voice operations, network and system security, and incident management, including the organisation's Network Operations Centre (NOC) and Operations Control Centre (OCC).

Jonathan was recognised in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honour List, with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for significant service to the community and to martial arts.

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