Generally, hotels have two main networks, one for guest and one for the hotels local admin which may be connected to the main corporate network.
Computer network and internet security is a major concern these days for everyone, especially with large IT infrastructures such as Hotels, Malls or Offices. Background music providers need access to PCs or other devices on the hotels network which means exposure to the internet and the inherent risks. Hotels will already have put in place protective measures, however you will need to give some consideration to how access will be granted to the music provider and still maintain security.
What is a LAN?
A LAN or Local Area Network and consists of a number of PCs and a server all connected together in order to share data and resources within a restricted area i.e. an organisation and / or building. It is not the internet but may connected to it.
What is a VLAN?
A VLAN or Virtual Local Area Network is a network that can be created within a LAN and isolated from the larger LAN. You might want to create a VLAN for only F&B or Finance.
What does this have to do with Background Music?
You BMS system will run on a PC. The PC will need to be connected to the internet so that BMAsia can support your system remotely. You may also have chosen a LAN streaming option so the network connection is essential. Exposure to the internet means exposure to security risk.
How does this protect my system?
A VLAN means that you have effectively isolated the PCs connected to it from the rest of the network. Putting your BMS system on VLAN isolates the BMS from sensitive parts of your network.
What if I cannot make VLAN on my system?
The alternative is to sit the BMS PC on the Guest Network and therefore achieve the same end.