Offshore crew WiFi with 4MS
Offshore crew WiFi solution expertise made the difference when we collaborated with 4MS Networks in Aberdeen to equip a working sea-going vessel in the North Sea. Reliability and ease of use were vital, as this system served as the crew’s only connection to the outside world during voyages of up to 12 weeks. Meanwhile, the operator required a system that was easy to manage and self-funding. Consequently, we tailored system attributes to satisfy both crew needs and management demands.
The challenge
A key consideration in this offshore crew internet service was achieving consistent, worldwide connectivity, even in extreme marine environments. To meet this, our design incorporated an automatic satellite tracking system, delivering seamless global IP access. Standard dual-band (2.4/5 GHz) access points provided fast, reliable crew WiFi. Additionally, a trial installation enabled early feedback and design tweaks before full deployment.
Requirements for an offshore crew WiFi solution
- A highly user-friendly, reliable, and robust system
- Individual bandwidth management
- Reporting and revenue management
- Pre-configured quick to install hardware
- Self-financed by crew data purchases
- Warranty backed components
- 24/7 technical support for crew and staff
- Cloud based subscriber account management
- Cloud-based management systems
- Clear installation guides
- Integrated firewall and security
- Frame agreement for supply and installation
Funding model
The operational costs of the offshore crew WiFi system needed to be self-funding and to meet this demand, we investigated several different charging options. The crew members purchase blocks of data allowance when registering on the WiFi system. They can then log on and manage their accounts, view their data usage, and buy more data when needed. Dependent on the system usage, the cost per MB of data can be varied by the operator to ensure costs are simply covered (rather than being run as a profit centre). This way, the crew gets the maximum benefit of the onboard WiFi.
Installation logistics
Wifinity prepared comprehensive installation instructions so that the IT engineering team could install the WiFi onto a vessel when it came into port. Due to the short turnaround times when docked, it was essential installation was quick and easy for the system and access points around the vessel.
Commercial model
Due to the different designs and sizes of vessels, a costing framework was produced for the operator to outline supply, installation, and operational costs. This allowed the vessel operator to call off a system as and when required, with the confidence that the system could be dispatched and installed within 14 days.
‘Our partnership with Wifinity is important to 4MS Networks. They share our focus on providing high-quality solutions coupled with excellent customer service. Their adaptability and a shared focus on giving our clients a great service have allowed us to scale the offshore crew WiFi solution across our energy industry client base.’
4MS