Service Description
Locker Large-File Research Storage, is a cost-optimized, high-capacity, large-file storage service for research data. Locker provides high performance for large files, and allows investigators across U-M to connect their data to computing resources necessary for their research, including U-M’s high-performance computing (HPC) clusters.
The service can be used in combination with the Globus File Transfer data management system to share data with external collaborators and institutes.
Locker Large-File Research Storage is available to all U-M faculty, scientists, clinicians, and students (Ann Arbor, Flint, Dearborn, Michigan Medicine) with needs to store and archive research data on campus or off-site.
Compliance
Locker Large-File Storage provides a secure environment for most types of sensitive data when using the NFSv4+Kerberos protocol or the CIFS protocol. Off-campus roaming users will be required to access the service using NFSv4+Kerberos or CIFS via the U-M VPN provided by ITS.
Locker Large-File Storage with NFSv4+Kerberos or CIFS includes safeguards required by HIPAA. Accordingly, you may use it to maintain Protected Health Information (PHI). Complying with HIPAA's requirements is a shared responsibility. Users sharing and storing PHI in Locker Large-File Storage are responsible for complying with HIPAA safeguards, including:
- Using and disclosing only the minimum necessary PHI for the intended purpose.
- Obtaining all required authorizations for using and disclosing PHI.
- Ensuring that PHI is seen only by those who are authorized to see it.
- Following any additional steps required by your unit to comply with HIPAA.
Social Security numbers should only be used where required by law or where they are essential for university business processes. If you must use SSNs, it is preferred that you use institutional resources designed to house this data, such as the Data Warehouse. ITS Information Assurance (IA) can help you explore appropriate storage locations or work with you to appropriately encrypt the data if those alternatives will not work for you. (Contact IA via the ITS Service Center.)
When Locker Large-File Storage with NFS is configured without the NFSv4+Kerberos protocol, it may not be used to store data that is classified as Restricted, High, or Moderate, or that is critical to the operations of the university.