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The maritime industry requires reliable and versatile digital tools that can perform effectively in diverse and often challenging connectivity environments. Witherby Connect, the browser-based eReader platform, is purpose-built to meet these needs, delivering seamless functionality both online and offline.
Trusted onboard more than 39,000 ships, Witherby Connect ensures vital publications remain accessible even in deep-sea conditions where connectivity is minimal.
Common Connectivity Challenges at Sea:
1. Limited Bandwidth Availability: Speeds at sea can be limited to 0.5 Mbps (512 kbps) or less, far below standards ashore. This limitation underscores the need for platforms optimised for low bandwidth.
2. Unstable Connections: Weather conditions, vessel movement and satellite positioning contribute to frequent signal interruptions.
3. Shared Networks: Bandwidth is shared among multiple users and devices onboard, leading to congestion and slower performance.
4. Geographical Constraints: Remote regions and satellite coverage gaps can cause complete connectivity blackouts.
5. Cybersecurity Risks: Limited connectivity can delay critical updates, leaving systems vulnerable to cyber threats.
How Witherby Connect Helps
Designed to operate on both high and low connectivity, Witherby Connect can be used offline across multiple devices, making it an adaptable solution for use within diverse environments on board ships.
The following functions ensure seamless operation even in challenging low connectivity scenarios while keeping the ease of use of a browser-based application:
Efficient Offline Mode
• Witherby Connect allows eBooks to be downloaded and cached in a browser, making them available for offline access. This ensures that essential publications can be accessed instantly, even when connectivity is completely lost.
• Downloads can be completed in areas where bandwidth is faster and cheaper (such as a port WiFi or when shore mobile signal is available). Once downloaded, the eBooks remain available locally and can be accessed offline without repeated downloads.
Low Bandwidth Use When Online
• The platform requires minimal data for regular operations after initial downloads. For instance: 7.5 kB transferred at login, 140 kB transferred when accessing a cached eBook.
• By using the export / import functions, you can reduce your bandwidth consumption for the whole ship. Import the library from the browser of one computer to another device on board the same ship. Each eBook is downloaded once and only once.
Offline App Access
• Users can install an offline application shortcut via Chrome or Edge. The app is lightweight (60MB, plus eBook sizes, averaging 5MB per eBook).
• The offline application replicates the important features of the online mode, ensuring access continuity even during prolonged connectivity outages.
Cybersecurity Compliance
• Witherby Connect adheres to IMO cyber security regulations, addressing the industry's growing concerns about digital threats. The platform operates within secure, browser-based sandboxed environments, minimising exposure for the host computer.
• Security configurations, such as adding specific URLs and IPs to firewall and proxy exception lists, further ensure secure protection.
Practical Tips for Seamless Use
1. Download publications during port calls when high-speed, affordable Internet is available.
2. Ensure browser settings allow persistent storage of application data to avoid re-downloading cached eBooks.
3. Add required URLs and IPs to firewall and proxy settings to avoid connectivity issues.
4. Use the offline app as a backup to maintain access when internet connectivity is unavailable.
Conclusion
Witherby Connect offers a robust solution for maritime professionals facing connectivity challenges at sea. By optimising for low bandwidth, supporting offline access and prioritising cyber security, the platform ensures critical publications remain accessible, enabling safer and more efficient operations in even the most remote locations.
Join over 39,000ships already using Witherby Connect today. Find out more at: https://www.witherbys.com/connect