Storage & Compute

Data security refers to the protection of data from unauthorized access, use, modification, disclosure, and destruction. It includes file security, network security, and physical security. It’s important to ensure that you select an appropriate storage method when working with restricted and sensitive data types. Learn more about Security & Compliance, navigate below to identify storage options, or consult with the Data Management team for guidance.

Storage refers to storing data files in accordance with applicable data classifications. When selecting storage options, consider the size of your data, who it needs to be shared with, budget, storage longevity, and data security needs.

Storage Types

• Desktop or Laptop
  • UT Dallas equipment complies with BP3096, meaning that unless data has security restrictions or requirements, saving data on your desktop or laptop is generally acceptable.
  • Not an appropriate long-term option.
• Network Servers
  • UT Dallas servers that are either managed by OIT or a school’s department are generally stable solutions. Navigate storage options below or consult with the Data Management Team for guidance.
  • Long-term options available.
• External Storage Drives
  • External drives, such as hard drives and SSDs, are convenient storage solutions to store and/or keep backups of your data. External drives can be encrypted to store more sensitive data types.
  • Because the average lifespan is 4-6 years, external hard drives are not an appropriate long-term option.
  • Flash Drive/USB’s are not recommended storage types because they’re easily lost and stolen.
• Cloud Storage
  • Cloud storage can be a convenient way to easily manage data across devices, backups, and can be an appropriate long-term storage option. However, because cloud storage options are owned and managed by companies and not UT Dallas, it’s important to understand the terms of service and to keep in mind that not all cloud storage options are viable options for sensitive or restrictive data types.
  • UT Dallas approved cloud storage options include OneDrive and Box, however they are not approved for sensitive or restricted data types. Consult the Data Management Team for guidance.
• Optical Storage
  • Optical storage, such as CDs and DVDs, can be used as an additional form of backup when proper physical storage is utilized.

Backing up your research data is an essential practice as part of managing data effectively. Data backups protect against human error, hardware failure, file corruption, virus attacks, and natural disasters. Your data is the basis of your research so it’s important that you have a strong backup strategy in the event of an emergency. Visit the Security & Compliance page for more information about backup & recovery policies.

After the completion of research, or the termination of a contract, some agreements require that data be destroyed. At a minimum, data must be destroyed according to UT Dallas Information Security Standards. Visit the Security & Compliance page for more information on retention policies.