Numerous AIS software options cater to diverse applications. Regrettably, some of these programs are no longer actively maintained, though they remain reliable tools with a proven track record spanning several years.

Choosing the appropriate software can be challenging due to the extensive variety available. Compatibility issues with different operating systems or challenging installation processes further complicate the decision-making process. This article provides an overview of the available AIS software and offers guidance on selecting the most suitable option based on specific purposes.

AIS Catcher is a relatively new and promising software for receiving and processing AIS data. It can be deployed on all major operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux) and Android, although the setup can be quite complex at times. AIS Catcher allows for the easy use of an inexpensive SDR (Software Defined Radio) receiver, but it can also be used with other receivers to capture, display, and forward AIS signals from vessels. The software is actively being developed and promises more exciting features in the future.

The AIS Dispatcher stands out as a reliable and straightforward software available for both Windows and Linux, designed for effortless data forwarding. Capable of receiving data from an AIS receiver through serial, USB, or network connections, it excels in forwarding this data seamlessly via IP and port (UDP) for distribution. Whether distributing data within your internal network or to external servers, the AIS Dispatcher proves versatile.

This software includes user-friendly features such as straightforward statistics for received messages and a range of filters, enhancing its functionality and usability.

The NMEA Router, tailored for Windows, is a more intricate software capable of receiving and distributing AIS data from various sources. Although it presents a steeper learning curve initially, once the software's concept is grasped, it becomes user-friendly.

AIS data can be received either serially from a receiver or from network sources through TCP or UDP. The conventional method of forwarding involves utilizing IP and port, employing both TCP and UDP. Users can establish connections between sources and destinations by creating customizable routes. The software features filters, and users have the option to save statistics in the form of an Excel file, enhancing its versatility and analytical capabilities.

AIS Decoder is a Windows (max. Win 8.1) software application that can receive AIS data either serially/USB or over a network (UDP/TCP). The data can then be decoded, stored, or forwarded to a single destination. The software is relatively limited in scope but may be the right solution for specific needs.

AIS Logger can be integrated as a system service in Windows or Linux. This allows the software to run automatically in the background to share AIS data. A configuration file can specify the target destinations for the data.

AISMon is free Windows software that can demodulate and decode AIS data through the computer's sound card and forward the data in NMEA format to a target via UDP output. The software is relatively complex, and its usage can be quite challenging at times. AISMon is outdated and only available through indirect means, making its use with current operating systems likely difficult. A good alternative could be AIS Catcher.

Shipplotter is a Windows chart plotting software that can receive AIS messages either through the computer's sound card or from a conventional AIS receiver connected via serial or USB. The software processes these data, forwards them via UDP, and displays them on a map. Shipplotter also offers many additional features.

OpenCPN is open-source marine navigation software available for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. The device can receive AIS data by serial or network (TCP/UDP) connection and can share the data as output. It is designed as a chart plotter and navigation tool for sailors and boaters. OpenCPN supports a variety of charts and navigation data formats and provides features such as route planning, waypoint management, and more.

OpenPlotter is open-source marine navigation software available for Linux, with a particular focus on the Raspberry Pi. It is quite similar to other chart plotting software but can be extended with tools like SignalK. Through these extensions, it supports the integration and forwarding of AIS data, among other features.

Signal K is an advanced and open data format for the maritime sector. It utilizes standard web technologies such as JSON, WebSockets, and HTTP to enable the transmission of information compatible with WiFi, smartphones, tablets, and the Internet. Signal K is capable of receiving and forwarding AIS data.

Kplex can receive and forward NMEA data on Linux systems. The installation process can may become quite complex. The last update to the software was made in January 2019.

If you want to view your AIS data locally on your computer or Raspberry Pi, you can use chart plotter software. A chart plotter software is an application for planning and displaying navigation charts on boats. It shows the current position, allows route planning, integrates AIS data and other sensors, and saves important navigation points. This software can be used to support navigation on small boats or simply to display ships at home. The following software is suitable to do this job and share the AIS data:

If you want to receive data from the AIS receiver to share it and use it on various devices in your network, for example, to display the data in your chart plotter software, you need to consider a few factors. Determine if you want to receive data from multiple receivers and how many destinations you want to forward the data to. For multiple receivers, you should look into the NMEA router more closely.

To receive AIS data, it is not strictly necessary to have a special receiver. You can use an SDR (Software Defined Radio) device, which allows you to tune into the AIS frequency and receive the data. This process can be quite complex and often involves using your computer's sound card audio. If you prefer to avoid this complexity, you should definitely take a detailed look at AIS Catcher.