It was time for this luxurious vessel to undergo necessary IT and security upgrade. When the clients contacted us, we immediately understood their need.
When dealing with high-profile customers, we know they always require a reliable connection at sea for business and safety purposes, together with cyber security to prevent data leaks and total anonymity.
That we delivered.
On this vessel, the main scope of work was the following:
· IT&AV Racks rerouting and tidy up, removing redundant equipment
· IT & Wi-Fi Upgrade
· NAS installation for backup
· IP Phone System replacement
· CCTV refresh
· Cyber Security Remediation Work
· Infrared Cameras upgrade
Our approach was to maintain as much of the existing network as possible, and deploy a seamless integration with new devices, improving the network without creating a new one from ground up. Not only is it cost-efficient, but it is also significant because it eliminates the need for Captains, Crew, and Clients to learn an entirely new system or interface. They will still use the same upgraded, user-friendly interface. Behind the scene our team will provide with the administrative programming of the network.
IT & WIFI UPGRADE
After careful evaluation, we decided to use a mix of Ubiquiti Unifi Pro and Long Range Access Points for their easy-to-use and great performances output. Moreover, the whole network can be accessed from a single interface, making it user friendly.
This upgrade consisted of n27 Internal AP and n4 External AP.
Thanks to the latest Wi-Fi 6 technologies, the upgraded Wi-Fi Access Points will provide seamless roaming throughout the vessel and enable the router/firewall to manage, monitor and control network traffic. Users will experience increase in speed, reduced latency and improved coverage with a smooth hand-over from the APs.
All central switches will also be upgraded to the latest Unifi 48 PoE Switch, providing up to 10GB up/downlinks and full control on the network under the same interface.
NAS
To enable GMTS to support the vessel remotely in case of internal network problems, we installed a new co-located NAS for emergency backup purposes on the Bridge together with a new remote monitoring and control system.
– Remote Monitoring & VM Server
– MMV Server
– Synology NAS 4×8 TB
IP PHONE SYSTEM
The PABX system got replaced and upgraded with a combination of Grandstream products, more specifically:
– Grandstream UCM6308 PABX
– Grandstream GDS3710 Doorbell with Video
– Grandstream Fixed Phones GHP621, GRP2612W, GXV3450
– Grandstream Wireless Phones WP820
– Grandtsream Doorbell GDS3710
This installation enabled full control of network via the Grandstream Interface, allowing easy management, control and monitoring of network traffic. We adjusted and customised the phone systems as per requested by the crew onboard, enabling various call groups and speed dial to facilitate communication on board.
The setup will also allow seamless deployment of future additional phones thanks to the Zero Config feature of the PABX.
CCTV
The upgrade consisted of a mix of cameras and monitors:
– Milestone Software Camera Station
– Axis T8705 HDMI Video IP Decoder
– 32” Samsung Monitor
– Install Apple TV for local control of CCTV app
– Milestone Video Recorder Server
– Synology NAS 4×8 TB
INFRARED CAMERAS
We removed a faulty camera and replaced it with a new Axis Q6225-LE OptimizedIR, which improved the sensibility and quality of the feed; we combined the camera with a new Video Recorder and a new Video Playback Station.
CYBER SECURITY
The work that was performed took part in several stages and operations, including updating the firmware and software of all devices onboard, updating the operating systems, generating a Cyber Security document, and ensuring that all devices were running Windows 10 or above. Additionally, we were involved in supporting T.I. with the upgrade of Control PCs on the Bridge, which were running on outdated hardware and operating system. The new systems were then documented and formatted to ensure compliance with ISM/IMO Cyber Security requirements. A YachtPorter was set up for QR code Wi-Fi access, and Wi-Fi codes will get changed regularly to ensure maximum security. Procedures and tasks were also established to enable the Crew to check and maintain the systems effectively. Furthermore, we extended VLANs to separate Management, Crew Business, and Crew Personal Devices for added security, enabling an extensive list of firewall rules to guarantee system’s integrity.
In summary, the clients were extremely satisfied with the work performed by our team. Expectations and time deadlines were successfully met, making the 6 months total refit of the vessel a smooth operation. The upgraded systems onboard the vessel have been optimized to ensure great performance and enhanced security for the years to come. With the implementation of the latest software and firmware updates, the onboard devices are running efficiently, and the crew has been equipped with new procedures to maintain and check the systems effectively. The vessel is now fully compliant with ISM/IMO Cyber Security regulations and is ready to cruise the seas. Not only the vessel looks shiny and new, but it also operates like it.
