Advanced Network Solution Supports YOTEL’s International Expansion into Schiphol

Published 19th November 2008

YOTEL, the revolutionary, first-class airline inspired hotel chain, has deployed an advanced multi-application network at its first international site to run all business operations and offer its business travellers the latest technology and communications.

The first YOTEL to be opened airside at Schiphol airport in Amsterdam has a converged network infrastructure, which incorporates voice, video and data-based business applications to maximise throughput and business productivity cost-effectively.

The network architecture was designed and implemented by virtual network operator TFM Networks. It follows a successful deployment of the network at YOTEL’s London headquarters and its Heathrow and Gatwick airport hotels.

It has been designed to handle all of YOTEL’s business requirements, from the streaming of IP-based CCTV to time-critical, secure operations such as credit card acquiry and the handling of customer details.

The 57-cabin YOTEL is located inside Schiphol’s terminal and the cabins feature free WiFi, wired Internet access and flat screen TVs to meet the technology needs of the business traveller. All applications run over the network infrastructure deployed by TFM Networks.

Nigel Buchanan, operations director at YOTEL said: “The individual approach of the YOTEL brand with its signature formula of innovation and entertainment, fits well with Amsterdam Airports Schiphol’s vision. TFM’s multi-application network ensures we have the availability and bandwidth to deliver on this vision for the business traveller and to handle and prioritise business operations.”

Stewart Yates, managing director at TFM Networks said: “YOTEL’s innovative approach required an equally innovative network solution from us – one which has successfully combined high-availability and business functionality with the technology that business passengers demand.”

A key element of the project involved working closely with Schiphol Telematics at all stages of the design and implementation, to address all issues relating to operating a wireless network within their own on-site network infrastructure.

The multi-application solution consists of two circuits – a 2Mb SDSL MPLS connection and a 3mb Internet Service – enabling YOTEL to maximise bandwidth availability, guaranteeing core business functionality at all times but also offering the flexibility to support a large number of other applications in a cost-effective manner.

YOTEL continues to expand globally with further destinations around the world to be announced.