Storage Options

UT Health San Antonio offers several options for storing University data, based on need and on the type of data to be stored. It is easiest to think of the storage options as either internal or cloud. Internal storage means the servers containing our data are located on our network and controlled by University personnel. This is also referred to as on-premise or on-prem storage. Cloud storage refers to storage accessible across the Internet.

The types of data being stored and how it is to be used are very important when deciding what form of storage to use. All sensitive data types (Confidential/High Risk) identified in Handbook of Operating Procedure 5.8.21 must be stored on internal servers. Cloud storage is excellent for collaborating with others, while on-prem servers provide the greatest degree of security.

Cloud storage refers to any program owned or managed by a third party that allows you to upload your data using the Internet. An advantage of cloud storage is that you can easily access and synchronize your data from multiple devices anywhere in the world, and, when properly configured, you can share your information with anyone you want. Faculty, staff, and students can also collaborate easily and stay productive with document sharing in the cloud as well as real-time co-authoring across devices through Microsoft's Office 365 tools in the My UT Health intranet.

This type of online storage can make you more productive, but it also comes with security risks. In accordance with HOP 5.8.31 Cloud Computing and HOP 5.8.21 Data Classification, University employees must use an approved cloud storage provider when storing University data. The cloud products you choose must be based on the categories of data you intend to store.

For more information about solutions for cloud storage and collaboration, visit the Cloud Services page* on the My UT Health Intranet. 

https://uthealthsa.sharepoint.com/IT/Pages/InfoSec/Cloud-Storage-Options.aspx

*To view this page you will need to enter your University credentials (domain username and password).