Networks
The vessel’s IT network is the main hub for many of the vessel’s electronic systems. The Entertainment, Communication and Security Systems will all use some part of the IT network along with the usual work stations, laptops, printers, etc. of a standard computer network. The network can also incorporate Alarm and Monitoring, Navigation information, and other vessel’s systems. Therefore, it is critical to provide an ultra-reliable, secure and flexible IT network.
Network Management
The network has to be managed to ensure that all connected systems have enough bandwidth in which to operate and Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) provided so that traffic within these systems are separated from each other. Home & Marine can provide the hardware and software necessary so that there is minimal crew requirement to invest too much time in monitoring the network usage.
Hardware
Dual redundant high performance servers will provide file storage, email management, network administration and security. Fixed workstations, laptops, printers and other peripherals can be provided as and where necessary.
Infrastructure
High performance switches would be installed in various locations throughout the vessel. These would connect to any central servers by a high speed backbone in either fibre optic or copper cabling due to size of vessel or network requirements.
Wi-Fi
Wireless Access Points (WAPs) would be installed in all necessary locations. These would provide the wireless connections for laptops, entertainment system touch panels, Wi-Fi telephone handsets, etc. Access can be provided for personal smartphones for web applications or even for wireless connection of an iPod to play music over the Entertainment System. These access points would also be managed for radio strength, channels separation and usage. VLANs provided and managed for the different system requirements.