Internet connectivity on ships has never been more critical or more challenging to manage. With the rise of high-speed satellite connections like Starlink, data consumption is skyrocketing. While improved connectivity is a game-changer for both business operations and crew welfare, it also creates new problems: uneven bandwidth distribution, soaring data costs, and the risk of using up your entire data plan within the first few days of the month.
If your fleet is struggling with these issues, Dualog Quota provides a solution. Dualog Quota gives you complete control over internet usage across your fleet, ensuring data is distributed fairly, costs are kept in check, and critical business operations are prioritized. Let’s explore how Dualog Quota can help you take charge of your fleet’s data consumption and keep both your crew and business happy.
Unmanaged internet usage is costly and disruptive
Managing internet usage on board ships has always been complex, but Starlink and other high-speed connections have made it even more challenging. Here’s what many fleet managers are facing:
Data exhaustion within days
Without a proper quota system, it’s easy for the crew to burn through the entire monthly data plan in the first few days, leaving nothing for critical business operations or crew needs later in the month.
Uneven data usage
Some crew members might stream videos or download large files, consuming a disproportionate amount of the data plan, while others are left with barely any access.
High costs
Overusing data or relying on backup services can quickly drive-up costs, which cuts into operational budgets.
Cybersecurity risks
Unrestricted access to the internet increases the risk of malware, phishing attacks, and data breaches, which could compromise the ship’s network and business systems.
Without a system to monitor and control data usage, you’re flying blind and taking a risk that could evolve into an expensive problem.
Watch the webinar “How to manage data consumption with Starlink onboard” here.
Take back control
Dualog Quota allows you to manage and control internet usage across your entire fleet from a single interface. It’s compatible with any internet provider, including Starlink, VSAT, and 4G, and it doesn’t require any additional hardware!
Here’s how it works:
1. Set up custom quotas
You can assign data or time limits to individual users or user groups. You can define quotas by day, week, or month to ensure that data is distributed fairly and predictably.
- Ensure that every crew member gets a fair share of the internet bandwidth.
- Prioritize business needs by setting aside a portion of the data plan specifically for operational use.
- Prevent early exhaustion of your data plan by limiting usage to sustainable levels.
Example: You could reserve 20% of the data plan for business needs, while giving each crew member a fixed daily allowance to prevent overuse.
2. Time-based and volume-based quotas
Quota can be set based on either time (hours of usage) or volume (MB/GB of data). This helps you strike a balance between business and crew welfare.
- Limit streaming and non-essential browsing during work hours.
- Provide enough data for crew members to stay connected with family without jeopardizing business operations.
- Promote a healthier work-life balance by setting time limits on personal internet use.
3. Self-service top-ups for crew
Once the free allowance is used up, crew members can easily purchase more data through the Dualog app or the ship’s slop chest.
- Pricing can be adjusted based on vessel, user group, or internet provider.
- Data top-ups can be integrated with the Crew Management System, allowing automatic payroll deductions for purchased data.
This self-service model increases crew satisfaction while preventing uncontrolled data usage.
Learn more about the Quota service has helped Stödig Ship Management here.
4. Protect your network with built-in cybersecurity
Uncontrolled internet access exposes your fleet to cyber threats. Dualog Quota includes built-in security features that protect your network at the DNS level:
- Network segregation – Keep crew and business networks separate to prevent cross-contamination from malware.
- Allow-lists and Deny-lists – Block access to specific websites and services to reduce exposure to risky content.
- Real-time threat monitoring – Get alerts about suspicious activity and respond to incidents immediately.
Example: If a crew member downloads a file containing malware, Dualog Quota will contain the threat within the crew network, protecting the business network from infection.
5. Detailed reporting and monitoring
With Dualog Quota, you have full visibility into data usage across your fleet:
- Generate detailed reports on data usage per user, vessel, or provider.
- Export reports to CSV files for easy analysis and record-keeping.
- Identify high-usage trends and adjust quotas accordingly to improve efficiency and cost control.
Example: If you notice that one vessel is consistently using more data, you can adjust the quota or investigate potential misuse.
Learn more about the Quota service and get a free trial for your ships here
Why Dualog quota works for maritime IT
Unlike generic data management tools, Dualog Quota is designed specifically for the maritime industry. It addresses the unique challenges of internet usage at sea, where bandwidth is limited, costs are high, and connectivity is essential for both business and crew welfare.
No hardware required – Works with Starlink, VSAT, 4G, or any other provider.
Fleet-wide management – Manage all ships from a single cloud-based interface.
Flexible control – Adapt quotas and rules based on vessel type, crew size, and business needs.
Secure – Protects against cyber threats and ensures secure browsing for the crew.
Stop struggling with unpredictable data usage and rising costs. Take full control of your fleet’s internet and keep both your crew and business operations running smoothly.
Visit Dualog Quota to learn more and start your free trial today!
Take back control of your fleet’s internet with Dualog Quota and ensure reliable, secure, and fair internet access for everyone onboard.
