When technology meets history, a delicate touch is required – both in project management and in technical implementation. The European Hansemuseum (EHM) in Lübeck, the world's largest museum dedicated to the history of the Hanseatic League, faced a digital turning point in the summer of 2024: a renewal of its network structures in a heritage-protected environment.
With Possehl Secure as its technical partner, the EHM was able to successfully master this challenge. The focus was on setting up a future-proof LAN and WLAN network, a modern firewall architecture, and smooth operation through a Managed Network Operation Center (NOC). The project was technically demanding, operationally complex – and ultimately a showcase project for intelligent network infrastructure in particularly sensitive environments.
The initial situation:
complex and historically grown
The European Hansemuseum Lübeck faced the challenge of further developing a historically grown IT infrastructure and adapting it to current IT standards – both in terms of internal work processes and in the context of digital offerings for visitors.
Specifically, action was needed in the following areas:
- Modernization of IT components (LAN, WLAN, firewalls)
- Elimination of existing performance bottlenecks
- Establishment of a future-proof security and monitoring architecture
- Professionalized operation with 7x10 support
The technical approach:
harmonization, modernization, managed services
Possehl Secure started with a detailed review: on-site inspections, WLAN coverage with professional Ekahau equipment, and comprehensive analyses of the existing network cabling and infrastructure formed the basis.
Uniform, scalable network design
The next step was to implement a future-proof, manufacturer-consistent network design:
- LAN & WLAN
Components from HPE Aruba, including 6GHz-capable Wi-Fi 6E for high capacities and minimal interference. Special solutions with external antennas and invisible mounting, taking into account monument protection regulations.
- Firewall
Two PA-450s in an active-passive configuration from Palo Alto Networks for highly available, segmented network security including VPN, NGFW, URL filtering, and threat protection.
- Monitoring
Aruba UXI sensors that actively monitor performance from the end-user perspective – a critical success factor in a public institution.
Managed Network Operation Center (NOC): Professionalization of IT operations
A central component of the project was the structured transition to managed service operations. The goal was to provide EHM with a powerful, failure-proof IT infrastructure that is monitored at all times – with clearly defined responsibilities and a high degree of process transparency.
- Service times
10x7 monitoring with qualified personnel, response time regulations, and escalation management
- Incident, problem and change management
All incidents are recorded, categorized, and tracked in a structured manner. In the case of recurring or more complex incidents, problem management is used to analyze the causes and find a lasting solution. Planned changes to the system landscape undergo regulated change management with documented planning, approval, and implementation. Monthly reports provide complete transparency regarding the operating status and measures taken.
- Release management
All managed components receive regular functional and security updates based on manufacturer recommendations.
The challenge of historic preservation:
Access points integrated invisibly
The unique nature of the project was not only in the technology, but also in its invisibility. Walls under historic preservation, exhibitions with original items, and historic architecture made classic IT installation nearly impossible.
This was a major challenge for us – how do you bring modern IT into a 13th-century monastery without it being visible? Possehl Secure's colleagues were solution-oriented at all times, communicated transparently, and also brought our existing partners on board. That's what professional collaboration looks like to us.
Through creative solutions, invisible cabling, and individual AP positioning, the team was able to implement a high-performance network that meets the requirements of museum operations in every respect – while respecting the historical substance.
Result:
Performance meets process reliability
The harmonization of the infrastructure led to noticeable improvements:
- Significantly higher network capacity for employees, guests, and showroom technology
- Reduced complexity through standardized hardware
- Transparency and security through active monitoring, reporting, and regular updates
- Stable operation despite the permanent public nature of the operating environment
A lesson learned from the project: Early involvement of existing partners – such as for media technology in showrooms – and a holistic understanding of the user experience make all the difference.
Outlook:
Thinking ahead in terms of security and user experience
With its modernized infrastructure and trust in professional managed services, the European Hansemuseum is not only an exciting place of history, but also an example of modern IT in complex environments.
The collaboration with Possehl Secure does not end with network security. Further optimization of the showroom installations and expansion of the security concept are already on the joint agenda.
Do you have a similar project in front of you?
Talk to us about smart networks, architectural compatibility, and managed services with added value. The Possehl Secure team has the technical and organizational expertise – even for particularly demanding infrastructures.