The Best Practice Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Recommendations, published by the Inmarsat Research Programme, offers guidance on maximising uptime and minimising cyber-vulnerabilities of onboard networks and automated systems. The comprehensive guide covers the design, deployment and ongoing operational management of shipboard ICT systems.

The new Inmarsat guide outlines how to design a software environment that prioritises uptime but is also easy to maintain long-term in terms of management and planning for upgrades. It offers a framework for developing IT policy and advice on best practice record-keeping for audits such as the OCIMF Tanker Management Self-Assessment scheme. Other topics include satellite connection options, IoT applications and crew access, and even the benefits of virtual servers/workstations for scalability and speedier recovery after failure.

Guidance is also provided covering expectations for cyber-security, in the context of coming revisions to the International Ship Management code. In fact, cyber-security is explored from multiple perspectives, including crew education and drills, and approaches to IT system lockdown/hardening. 

Click here to download the guide.