Transforming IT Operations for a Leading Naval Shipyard

Executive Summary

A major shipyard in the Western Cape, employing 400+ staff, faced ongoing instability, security risks, and operational bottlenecks due to an outdated and fragmented IT environment. Aesir Systems was initially engaged for a small connectivity project but ultimately took over as the primary MSP, delivering a full modernisation that brought the environment up to industry standards with a secure, redundant, and centrally managed infrastructure.

Initial Engagement

Aesir Systems was first contracted to provide a wireless failover internet link at the request of the shipyard’s outsourced MSP. As issues escalated, the MSP increasingly relied on Aesir for deeper technical support. Eventually, the CEO requested that Aesir assume full responsibility for all IT operations.

Challenges Identified
  • All users operating in a workgroup with no central identity management
  • Basic NAS used for file sharing
  • Wireless network secured only with WPA2; passwords widely shared
  • 300+ staff using the same guest Wi-Fi network
  • All users operating in a workgroup with no central identity management
  • Basic NAS used for file sharing
  • Wireless network secured only with WPA2; passwords widely shared
  • 300+ staff using the same guest Wi-Fi network
Aesirs Solution

Aesir Systems delivered a full-spectrum modernisation, bringing the environment up to industry standards and establishing a secure, redundant, centrally managed IT ecosystem.

Key Improvements
  • Introduced modern, centralised identity and access controls
  • Implemented secure authentication across wired and wireless networks
  • Eliminated shared passwords and guest-network misuse
  • Applied structured access controls and policy-driven governance
  • Replaced outdated VPN with secure, authenticated remote access
  • Designed and deployed MPLS connectivity for remote branches
  • Migrated critical systems to a Tier-1 datacentre for uptime and security
  • Implemented enterprise-grade monitoring, patching, and backups
  • Rolled out MFA and modern security policies
  • Standardised infrastructure for long-term stability
Outcomes
  • Fully modernised, secure IT environment
  • Stable, high-performance network with proper segmentation
  • Secure, authenticated remote access
  • Enterprise-grade uptime through datacentre hosting
  • Proactive IT operations with automated monitoring and maintenance
  • Leadership confidence restored through a single accountable partner
Client Feedback
“Aesir transformed our IT environment from unstable and reactive to secure, modern, and reliable. The improvement in performance and stability has been exceptional. We finally have a partner who takes ownership of the entire environment — connectivity, infrastructure, security, and support.”
CEOLeading SA Naval Shipyard

What began as a small connectivity project evolved into a full modernisation of the shipyard’s IT operations. Aesir Systems now provides end-to-end operational excellence, supporting 400+ staff with a secure, redundant, and industry-aligned IT environment designed for long-term resilience.

Client Overview:
Industry:
Vessel manufacturing and engineering
Location:
Western Cape, South Africa
Staff:
Staff: 400+
Environment:
High-security, high-uptime operational requirements
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