Guidelines for File Storage
Feinberg IT is encouraging everyone to eliminate the storage of work related files from their desktop and laptop equipment in favor of backed up and managed central file storage.
Each user whose computer is on the Feinberg network has a Home directory that can be used to store any type of work related files. There is also a workgroup shared directory for storage of those items being shared within a workgroup (lab, division, or department). The files stored in this way will be backed up daily.
All files that are considered “legally/contractually restricted” (e.g. those containing HIPAA, FERPA, or personally-identifiable information, see the data access policy) must be stored only on the secure Feinberg network file system. Requests for secure storage can be requested from the Feinberg IT request application.
Server resources are also available from Feinberg IT. Please log in to IT request application to request a virtual server.
Storage Options
There are now digital storage options for data files, documents, images, video and audio files, and databases available to you for your Feinberg research, education, and administration work related activities.
The Feinberg IT Infrastructure group will consult with the individual making the request for storage. They will recommend the preferred option for the specific storage needs. Questions about storage can be addressed to fsmhelp@northwestern.edu.
Storage Location | Public/Non-Sensitive Data | Internal Sensitive or Legally/Contractually Restricted Data |
Local Storage (Desktop/laptop) | Y | N |
NAS (Network Attached Storage) | N | N |
Department File server | Y | N |
NU Vault | Y | N |
NU Box | Y | N |
NU SharePoint | Not open to general public | Y |
FSMFILES / FSMRESFILES | Not open to general public | Y |
Note: Any research project requiring storage of protected health information (PHI) or personally identifiable information (PII) must have a documented Data Security Plan.
Contact Us
To request storage please contact us and provide as much of the requested information as possible. Your request will be transmitted through the Footprints tracking system to the Feinberg Infrastructure Team.