What are the Benefits of an Internet Connection on the Ship?

Where once people might have taken the ability to stay in contact as a luxury, it is now taken for granted. Mobile phones have grown smaller and mobile networks faster. Everyone carries a smartphone now, with the ability to glance at the latest news and contact their love ones at the touch of a button. This is nowhere more lacking than on cruise ships. While planes might take away your connection for a few hours, a cruise might take you away from “civilization” and your loved ones for days, even weeks. The need for a quick, serviceable internet is especially felt by those on a cruise.

However, thanks to the revolutionary services granted by modern mobile satellite systems, it is now easier than ever to access the internet even while a board a ship. Now you can access the internet to browse various sites, upload, and download data across the globe at reasonable speeds; even at remote locations.

This much-needed excellent service is provided by Fleet Broadband. It provides cost-efficient voice and data on board with help of a compact antenna which ensures 99.9% network connectivity. Backed by the reliability of L-band service, it ensures high-speed data irrespective of the part of the globe you are travelling.

The maritime sector has thousands of sea vessels which put their trust on Fleet Broadband for their comprehensive internet requirements. It helps in boosting the morale of the crew by enabling them to stay in touch with family, access social media, and even stream entertainment online. They also offer safety services to the vessels allowing them to contact the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre with a distress button in case of emergencies.

The key benefits of internet services on ship are:

• Standard IP data for applications, emails, internet access

• Committed rates for live applications and video conferencing

• Pre-paid/ post-paid calling options for crew

• Enhanced voice services like caller barring, call forwarding and caller identification

• Make and receive calls and SMS texts through GSM

• Send/ receive SMS from another terminal on fleet board through smartphone/tablet/PC

• Free emergency calling to MRCC for distress call

Benefits of Maritime Internet on a ship:

• It will help in monitoring the fuel usage by tracking the underlying issue and addressing it with the help of technical support.

• It will help in addressing a complex medical issue on-board without having to wait for the port.

• Internet will help in protecting against pirates or other dangers with help of surveillance cameras.

• Internet services will also help in weather forecast and locate direction in case of confusion.

If you are in a shipping business, then it is important for you to stay updated with the new developments in the marine world. Find more on the web about the marine internet services, its benefits and how shipping companies can get them installed for better business growth.

Browse the Web Freely While on Cruise with Maritime Internet

Cruises are an exciting and unforgettable experience. Between the plethora of food, the wide selection of fun activities and the enjoyable shows to take part in, it is certainly a vacation unlike any other.

Cruises come equipped with so many amenities, it is almost impossible to imagine. Besides being able to gamble at the on board casino on international waters, there is also a fully equipped gymnasium, a swimming pool to enjoy, and usually, even a spa.

Whether you decide to spend your time lounging by the poolside, working out or being pampered at the spa, you will come out of any cruise refreshed and ready to take on the world. This is not even including the sights you are cruising to see!

Maritime VSAT – Connecting you to the world

Of course, cruises are not without some small downsides. Getting access to the internet to check on your favourite sports team or to ensure you do not miss any critical emails can be a problem sometimes on the high seas.

In order to meet these demands, ships have started to incorporate internet services into their specially designed packages. Services related to maritime vsat will help you get connected to the rest of the world even while you are out at sea allowing you to remain connected to the rest of the world and giving you peace of mind.

You can easily access this specially designed service for a small fee. Due to the fast speeds that modern technology allows us to benefit from, it has become easier than ever for you to browse the internet. Further more, the strength of maritime internet routers means that you may access the Internet from anywhere on the ship.

Maritime Internet Service – Letting Easy Access to WWW

If you are willing to spend a bit more, you might even consider subscribing to you own Internet broadband program. The monthly rate that you will be paying will not fluctuate while on ship. The internet service you get from the VSAT is unparalleled in terms of speed and reliability. It is truly possible to never be disconnected from the internet and browse at the speed you desire!

Of course, there are plenty of internet connectivity options that you can look at to stay connected and selecting the best out of the same could be quite the challenge. A few of the things that you should pay attention to are budget, connectivity band, and the expected reach of internet access before finalizing any device or data plan. You can also browse the web to know more about internet connectivity and gadgets that can fit your requirements.

Everything You Need to Know to Ensure Complete Cyber Security on Ships

Cyber security threats are complex to figure out and growing at a rapid pace. It can lead to unpredictable outcomes, which makes cyber security a major concern. It is critical to address the issues as it includes compromising the security of various offshore and shipping operations. Securing vulnerable networks and ensuring that network systems are not compromised is becoming more difficult with as hackers get smarter and more technologically advanced. There have been multiple scenarios of cyber attacks and other vulnerabilities experienced in the recent past, and an important part of the cyber security solution depends on developing a sound, systematic procedure to help in combating the risks.

There are many companies that make use of step by step processes to evaluate cyber security related to the vessels with relevant purposes in land management. Some of the best tactics used in the field to reduce risks in energy, maritime and oil and gas applications involve recognizing the potential threats and quickly developing strategies to protect against them. The tactics should be in relation to both behavioral and technical aspects.

How to Create a Security Procedure to Ensure Maritime Cyber Security?

In the industry of ship owning, maritime cyber security is an important and difficult issues to grapple with. It affects many different fields and poses high risks to the safety as well as data security. There are different kinds of approaches which help in addressing the issues; some of them are explained as follows.

1. Assessment and enhancement of cyber security

There are various companies that can help in identifying the risks through various applications. Once the bridge between the procedures is recognized, various approaches can be taken in fighting against these risks.

2. Fleet broadband

Fleet broadband is a satellite working for the huge vessels and offering maritime communication solutions. Usually, there are three antennas working in tandem to provide communications and contribute to various functionalities. They help in enabling telecommunications between ships and the main land and offer a wide area of network.

3. Penetration testing

It is essential to test the strength of various firewalls and security systems in place to make sure they are safe and secure. These procedures will help in determining the strength of the systems in an effective and comprehensive way.

There are various companies offering these services, however it is really important to find the ones that are reliable and reputable in the industry. Maintaining a strong strategy and procedure to ensure optimal cyber security is essential to combat threats that may cause serious damage to your business, reputation or even crew members. Explore the web for more tips on finding a reliable service partner.

Importance of ICT Applications in Maritime Industries

Ever wondered how difficult communication technology must be for those who work in the endless sea? Well, with the advancements in technology, high-speed broadband telecommunication connecting shore to ship and vice-versa have now become increasingly possible. Typically isolated industries like shipping, offshoring, and oil and gas, which have huge demands for telecommunications can now get access to quick, reliable networks.

In order to meet these demands, various IT companies now provide satellite communications and ICT applications that help to overcome the challenges of the Maritime business industry. Below are only a few of the benefits of ICT applications for clients:

ICT Application and Cyber Security

Information Technology is so pre-dominant in today’s business that even the slightest misstep will leave your communications network compromised and vulnerable to any of the numerous malware threats waiting to pounce. Hence, many companies now not only provide innovative ICT applications in the Maritime sector, they must also protect industries from potential cyber threats. Along side a high speed maritime broadband connection, safe and secured ICT applications are providing security and surveillance at all levels. 

Operational Efficiency

With the flourishing industry in the Maritime space, clients are looking for ever more advanced ICT solutions that can help ease their operations. Hence, more IT service providers are providing highly personalised Maritime VSAT, which is a high speed broadband connection powered for satellite telecommunications services. It caters to the all the high speed demands of basic communications services like email, video conferencing, voice call, fax, maritime navigations, and provides other maritime ICT solutions to ensure continual business operations.

End-to-End Monitoring Solutions

It is very important to monitor a ship’s progress and keep its charts continually updated, hence technologically sound ICT applications are developed to monitor performance of the vessel at all levels. Besides monitoring the movement and performance of the ship, the information collected through ICT systems are accurately and constantly assessing the current situation to ensure optimal decision-making and deliver operational efficiency.

The latest advancements in technology and internet policies are re-defining the data protection and prevention processes. Securing their high speed networks and allowing constant communication and the monitoring of a multitude of distant ships, ICT companies allow the exploration of further and more isolated destinations than ever.

Increase in Adoption of Satellite Communication by Global Oil and Gas Companies

The global maritime VSAT market was valued at USD 2 billion in 2016 and is expected to surpass USD 3 billion by 2021. This may be due to the increase in the adoption of satellite communication by global oil and gas companies. The companies are using satellite communication to monitor oil and gas rigs. The transportation of oil and gas through underwater pipelines or via shipping facilities requires 24/7 surveillance, owing to the high risk and financial loss due to leakage. That’s why oil and gas companies are now using maritime internet communication equipment for remote surveillance, monitoring of rig sites and maintenance of these pipelines.

Maritime VSAT Applications for Oil and Gas Industry

MVSAT provides unlimited maritime satellite communications, delivering operational efficiency, and value added maritime solutions. 100% of the oil rigs are running VSAT networks to support heavy-bandwidth applications, such as live video for rig monitoring, transfer of heavy seismic data, crew training, pipeline monitoring, asset tracking, and cloud computing.

• VSAT solutions for the maritime sector support deep well drilling rigs and ships, such as FPSO, support vessels, and semi-submersible rigs.
• Fixed antennae VSAT solutions are used for shallow water drilling jobs, jack-up rigs and lift boats.
• Offshore drilling takes place in the harshest environments on earth. With VSAT satellite services, all offshore communications requirements can be met with the highest level of security including IP and radio encryption.
• Shale gas industry is also using VSAT satellite and wireless network infrastructure to facilitate shale gas exploration, seamless operation, greater performance, and management benefits.
• Maritime VSAT satellite communication enables effective management of unmanned drilling operations, regardless of the remoteness of the location.

From exploration to production, reliable, durable and capable maritime internet communication is of paramount importance for the oil and gas industry. Satellite operators like Inmarsat and Intelsat are launching new HTS constellations targeted at the maritime sector, and to make VSAT service more economical. With increase in demand in the oil and gas industry along with other maritime sector, maritime VSAT service provider will continue to foster growth with further advancements in bandwidth efficiencies and network scalability.

How Maritime Internet Services Benefit Your Back Office Support & Operations?

Managing your marine operations may becoming a little challenging, when you don’t choose the right Internet service provider, but if you have an efficient and honest staff, then things might become a little simpler. No matter how efficient and honest your staff is, you will always require certain records, data, and details to map their performance and hard work. Being an employer, you may think about a couple of options that can help you in mapping the performance of your team and marine employees, but how about using Internet services? Well, yes you’ve read it right! Read the following sections to know about a few quick tips that can help you organize your backend tasks with great ease:

1.Keep a Track on Employees With Constant Communications

Fleet broadband not only helps you to maintain a constant communication with your on-ship crew, but also reduces your monthly costs for communications by helping you to take advantage of satellite communications. Offering low and cost-effective ways to communicate things from office to vessel telephony, the services also helps you to keep a track of employee movements and can assist in centralized management.

2.Manage Optimal Security by Adjusting Privacy and Firewall Settings

Undoubtedly, your maritime satellite communications network is prone to various threats and security concerns, thus, you can adopt a customized policy to manage fleet wide firewall rules. Doing this can help you manage your business hierarchy with great ease, and will ensure that only limited and authorized personnel have access to all vessels communication networks.

3.Control Crew Communications

Using maritime Internet services for managing crew communications is a perfect solution to keep a track on crew’s communications and movements. It can help in integrate vessel and shore office systems to ensure that the IT team can have a better control on security and privacy of the networks. In addition to this, it also increases the efficiency of the vessel’s communication, thus, helps in communicating things at a faster pace.

It is recommended to check the logs and details of communication network, maritime vsat from time to time to keep a check on business activities and to ensure optimal safety and privacy of your communication networks.

Maritime Internet:Three Key Usages You Must Know About

Undoubtedly, maritime industry is a continually growing at a faster pace, and things are becoming technologically advanced to deliver best services to the global businesses and sea operations. Most of the service providers, who deal in offering maritime communication support to sea vehicles and equipment, are adopting latest technologies and techniques to help sailors stay connected with the outside world.

Plenty of maritime schools, educational institutions, and other related coaching centers are offering necessary training to help aspiring sailors, captains, and seafarer to develop the necessary skill set they should have for ensuring safe sea operations. If you belong to maritime industry and are aren’t aware of the key usages of having maritime internet connections on sea vessels, then read the sections below to turn yourself into a knowledgeable geek who can play active role in deciding sea communication strategies while on sea operations:

1.Serves as Means of Communications During Sea Journeys

Maritime internet finds its key usage in serving as a connectivity link between people in sea and on shores. Offering specific means of communication amidst sea operations, Fleet Xpress services help people on ship to reconnect with their family and friends is an easier manner. Seafarers can easily use social media sites to update their family and friends about their well-being and journeys. Also, they can access information related to weather conditions, current affairs and viral trends without losing high-speed connections.

2.Contributes in Enhancing Knowledge and Skills

Having Fleet Broadband on boats, ships, and other sea vehicles is essential to ensure that seafarers can improve their knowledge and skills continuously. It helps in improving the workflow by assisting them in designing, planning, and implementing newer strategies for their sea journey and discovering success without actually investing much of their time. Seafarer scan continuously learn about news, trends, and study things about maritime industry to constructively contribute towards the improvement of current sea processes and operations.

3.Faster and Better Results

Mapping the progress of sea operations becomes much easier, faster, and better with introduction of internet in crucial processes. Internet and information technology combines to ensure that the shipping processes are getting completed on time and are accurate as per the details mentioned on other web sources for avoiding any confusions and conflicts. Fleet Broadband can result in faster processing of mentioned tasks and can assist in delivering better results by improving the overall functionality of processes.

Evaluating cyber security aspects in the maritime industry

It has been estimated that approximately 90 percent of world trade occurs via ocean. The computerized systems and automated machines that the maritime sector relies upon are not equipped enough to meet the threats of the 21st century. With increased digitalization and automation, the maritime industry has now opened doors to vulnerabilities, with potentially devastating consequences. It has been estimated that cyber risks to the maritime sector are likely to increase in 2018 due to mandatory implementation of navigational systems. So, what maritime companies can do to increase maritime cyber security?

A cyber criminal hacked the e-services section of the website of a port in Oman in 2016 and released customer data. In July 2016, a cyber activist group targeted three maritime companies and leaked confidential documents. All such incidents reveal that the maritime sector is vulnerable to cyber attacks. With cyber threats in the maritime sector expected to increase in the coming years, it is important for organizations to be prepared.

·         Port operators and shipping companies should analyze and mitigate the vulnerabilities present in newly released software and hardware, and patch security holes promptly before integrating them into their ships or facilities. Shipping companies should use only secured communication systems such as Inmarsat Fleet Broadband for transferring voice and broadband data from ship to port facilities.

·         All companies related to the maritime sector should develop good practices for the implementation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) components that have “security by design” in order to avoid any cyber threat.

·         Maritime cyber security awareness among crew is currently low. So it is highly recommended to undertake maritime sector awareness raising campaigns and cyber security training of shipping companies, staff members, and port authorities.

·         Currently, maritime security regulations and policies consider only physical aspects of security and safety. Therefore, it is essential that policy makers should now add cyber security aspects to their new regulations for minimizing future cyber attacks.

All companies in the maritime industry should start acting on these measures needed to ensure greater cyber security protections. These measures, such as maritime cyber security awareness, training, better regulations and using secured fleet broadband systems for communication, will also help them to avoid catastrophic losses and becoming another victim of cyber crime.

Vessel Monitoring: Combining Mobile Satellite Internet and Vessel Tracking

Vessel surveillance system is used to monitor the location and movement of commercial vessels at sea and remote areas. Such system help vessel operators and owners to monitor vessel position, course and speed, and to make sure vessels are doing the right thing. To use vessel surveillance system, you need to install mobile broadband satellite-based communication system on vessels. The transceiver units will then send position reports such as vessel location with time and date and the vessel can be tracked continually. Mobile satellite services combined with vessel tracking technology enable vessel operators to track and monitor their ocean-going vessels in real-time anywhere within the world. This would help you to reduce the marine communication costs and improve profitability for your company.

Importance of Vessel Monitoring

·         Vessels navigate in very close proximity to each other. Therefore, vessel management becomes a critical aspect of vessel safety operations. By using vessel tracking systems, ship operators can manage their vessels safely and efficiently.

·         Some of the marine vessels have dimensions (height, width and length) that restrict their navigation in deep-water routes, thereby making them dependent on weather and sea conditions. A comprehensive vessel monitoring solution provides weather data, and has alerting options so that ships, people, and cargo can be saved at right time during emergencies.

·         Vessel monitoring system is linked to shore system to send alerts to land-based operators so that operators can guide rescue operations in case of marine emergencies.

·         Mobile satellite internet with connected vessel monitoring system keep merchant vessels connected, enforce compliance with marine regulations, and enable cost-effective and efficient vessel operations.

• Vessel tracking system can be seamlessly integrated into existing fuel monitoring solutions, which helps in optimizing fuel consumption.
• You can collect vessel engine performance data from vessel monitoring system and ensure that your fleets are always operating at their best.

The benefits of using mobile satellite services with vessel surveillance system are better ship and traffic performance in real-time, efficient use of waterways, reduced fuel consumption, and improved safety. Lastly, broadband satellite services with integrated vessel tracking systems will have a positive impact on the efficiency of port and vessel operations due to better scheduling and quicker turnarounds.

Everything You Must Know About Managing Maritime Cyber Security Channels

Cyber threats and security management is a challenging task in the modern world as hackers and malware authors are becoming smart and are applying various techniques to enter into a particular system. Trojans, viruses, and identity frauds are scams of past, hackers are now focusing on compromising the security of entire channels or broadband networks to collect useful data that can turn out to be helpful in commencing digital frauds. If you with to know some quick tips that can help you manage maritime security with ease, then read the sections below:

1.      Stay Aware of the Threats

One of the most common precautions is to keep yourself abreast with the latest developments, threats, and viruses that may impact the security of your system or the entire channel. Always stay updated with the details related to international malware attacks, maritime cyber security cases, and other security break-outs to ensure that you stay prepared for any such challenges.

2.      Set Strong User/Network Access Controls

Ask your administrators and IT security controllers to adopt latest techniques, security patches, and other essential security layers to help you enjoy extra protection against all such threats. Begin with using smart technologies, configuring the risk-prone areas with additive security layers, and even setting up stronger access controls to ensure that only authorized professionals are allowed to access a particular set of information or details.

3.      Perform Regular Backups

If you’re using maritime broadband to complete all your processes and tasks, then it is highly possible that you may get attacked by a smart hacker or malware author. One of the safest options to overcome such situations is by creating regular backups of your data and files. In addition, training employees on how to judge the security of emails, notifications, and recognizing cyber-attacks is also very crucial to keep the entire network safe from potential threats.

Conclusion

Nothing in the digital world is 100% secured, but the best way to deal with security attacks and hacks is by staying prepared for the worst. Securing your networks and managing cyber security helps you to simplify processes in case anything bad happens or you entire loss control over communications and data shares. Explore the web to know more and practice all crucial steps to enjoy advanced security against known or unknown threats.

Run Virtual Private Network on Mobile Satellite Systems without Compromising Performance

Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an encrypted connection that enables remote clients or mobile workers to securely connect with a private network over the public Internet. VPN connection gives employees secured access to their company networks. The use of VPN connections can increase safety and security in the maritime industry. These connections can allow maritime administrators to send mission-critical information from their land-based shore locations to ships docked in other part of the world.

Use of VPN over Satellite Internet connections
Previously, satellite Internet services offered less bandwidth that was required for VPN connection. Geosynchronous satellites used to take long time to transmit data between the satellite and ground stations, which is called high latency. With the invention of mobile satellite services such as maritime VSAT systems, VPN can now function properly over broadband satellite used by ships.

• The low latency of VSAT networks makes it practical to implement VPN connections across the shipping industry.

• Satellite Internet interacts with many elements of Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) such as congestion avoidance algorithms and data acknowledgment mechanism. These limitations can be overcome by using TCP Acceleration process with indoor units (IDU) or VSAT equipment designed for satellite.

• VSAT Systems offers two 3-Key Triple Data Encryption Algorithm (3DES) alternatives that encrypt the data that you want to send, leaving the Internet Protocol (IP) and TCP headers accessible. Since the headers are now available, the encrypted packets are compatible with all types of satellite modems or broadband satellite services used by ships.

VSAT mobile satellite services are friendly with many VPN solutions. No need to make a trade-off between functionality and security of your secured networks. You can use your current VPN solution with mobile broadband satellite services and VSAT equipment to increased latency of the network and VPN performance. Ship operators in remote locations require access to their business critical applications and industrial grade security while communicating over satellite Internet. Everything becomes possible when you merge VPN solutions with VSAT mobile satellite service for your maritime operations.

Smart Ways to optimize your Vessel’s Maritime Internet Connection

Maritime VSAT is a leap forward in technology that brings Internet to you at sea. Today, reliable high-speed maritime internet supports secure and reliable satellite voice and data services on marine vessels. However, there is a difference in connectivity speed at sea and land. There are some smart and unique ways that marine vessel operators can use to improve vessel Internet connection's performance.

#1 Traffic Shaping
Traffic Shaping refers to controlling various Internet activities on marine vessel, such as email, website browsing and voice calls. You can use three types of traffic shaping methods – URL Shaping, Application Shaping and Policy-based Shaping – to set priorities between Internet users and traffic types allowed on the communication network. With URL Shaping, you can limit bandwidth distribution to different websites.  Use Application Shaping method to allocate bandwidth depending upon different protocols used by users. Policy-based Shaping helps you to define your rules and regulations to specify maximum bandwidth and Internet usage rate.

#2 Use Bandwidth Monitoring System
Some maritime VSAT service providers offer bandwidth monitoring system along with high throughput satellite (HTS) technology in Ku and Ka-bands. Such monitoring systems can help in real-time monitoring of Internet usage by crew, operators and vessel systems. You can set parameters that will alert you when the Internet is down, when usage is exceeding limit and more. Bandwidth monitoring systems can also help vessel managers to couple maritime VSAT system with a shore-side high-speed Internet connection.

Maritime Internet connection helps your customers and crew to keep in touch with family, friends and businesses back home, managers to carry out vessel operations and operators to communicate with shore-side bases. With high-throughput maritime VSAT services, you get high bandwidth speeds on vessel, but you are also required to control usage to save money. These smart ways will let you use maritime Internet in a more efficient and effective way. However, care must be taken while selecting services and equipment to get the best pricing and experience. Consult with an experienced maritime satellite communications specialist today! 

3 Ways to Limit the Use of Maritime Broadband Satellite Internet on Your Fleet

Maritime broadband internet via satellite enables commercial ships, yachts and private boats to stay connected while at sea. Maritime broadband communication is pricey than land broadband services, where you can access unlimited internet for a fixed monthly payment.

Standardized fleet broadband, customized VSAT services or hybrid networks provide reliable connectivity for operations, passengers and crew on board. Unlimited access to fleet broadband is very expensive so it’s advisable to follow these cost-saving tips for fleet or ship owners:

Password Protecting Your Satellite WiFi

You can use marine broadband router with your Fleet Broadband or VSAT connection. WiFi routers manage satellite connections by providing password protection features so as to prevent unauthorized access. Marine broadband routers form the central control element for a robust maritime Internet communication system. You can generate individual "user login codes" for guests and crew so that you cancontrol per user bandwidth and limit internet usage.

Using Free Internet Optimization Application

Internet Optimization Application increases transmission speed and reduce airtime costs. Such application uses latest data-compression techniques to reduce the amount of data transferred over broadband Internet. Data compression tools offer faster, more reliable and more economical data in maritime broadband communication.

Throttle Bandwidth Usage using PIN codes

Certain maritime satellite communication devices have the facility to set a data limit on the bandwidth. Create PIN codes on your internet optimization tool torestrict bandwidth usage so that the internet goes slower when the user crosses the set data limit. You can even use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services to cut down airtime costs for voice calls.

With the increasing demand for seamless data on marine vessels for communication and operations purposes, it is important to provide high speed maritime broadband satellite services. But, it is also essential for vessel managers and operators to monitor data usage of their fleet broadband in order to reduce airtime costs.The above mentioned tips will help to save your dollars while also providing satellite broadband internet services to crew and guests.