Government Shared Network - Home
GSN at a glance
The Government Shared Network (GSN) is a new
network that enables government agencies to securely share information
at higher speeds and more cost effectively. The shared network improves
the delivery of information and services to the New Zealand public.
The information about the GSN and its products contained in this website can also be accessed as a downloadable PDF file [950 KB].
Key features of the shared network
- A secure fibre-optic network connecting government agencies.
- A wide area network (WAN) connecting government agency sites anywhere in New Zealand on a secure voice and data capable network.
- Services delivered on the shared network including internet access, IP telephony, secure remote access and offsite data storage.
How it works
The shared network has a modular structure, enabling agencies to take up services as they require them, and as their existing telecommunications supply arrangements expire.
Agencies are able to access many common applications via the shared network, including:
- High-speed inter-agency connection.
- A secure internet gateway for government.
- IP telephony (phones that operate on internet technology rather than traditional 'land lines')
- Secure remote access.
- Web hosting services.
- Data storage for disaster recovery.
Each agency retains control of its individual security by managing its own GSN firewall.
Development and implementation of the shared network has been co-ordinated by the State Services Commission, in close consultation with participating agencies. On an on-going basis, a governance board will set the strategic direction and objectives.
Benefits of the shared network
The shared network offers a number of potential cost and operational benefits to participating agencies and to government as a whole.
The GSN provides a foundation for transformational improvement in the provision of state services.
The use of telecommunications by many government agencies can be significantly improved by adopting a corporate approach to security, connection and cost effectiveness.
The security of government information systems is significantly improved by consolidating expertise and resources at a small number of network connections.
A shared network provides connection at the telecommunications network layer, which helps to achieve collaboration between agencies for data exchange, shared services and joint service delivery.
Significant improvements in cost-effectiveness are achieved through consolidated use of network services. The Government Shared Network replaces and rationalises duplicated services currently employed by government agencies and delivers a suite of converged voice, video and data transmission at a lower unit cost than that currently available to many agencies through existing supply arrangements.
Current status
The Government Shared Network is operational, under the auspices of the State Services Commission. The GSN has been providing network services to foundation agencies since early 2007. As at February 2008 eleven agencies are connected to the GSN with a further nine having signed contracts to adopt GSN services.
Agencies interested in taking part in the Government Shared Network are encouraged to contact the GSN project team at gsn@ssc.govt.nz.
Feedback and corrections
Please send any feedback, comments or corrections in relation to the GSN information contained herein to gsn@ssc.govt.nz.
