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This document lays out the considerations when choosing a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device for data storage and when they will be permitted to be connected to the University/Clinical School network.
NAS device discussion
NAS devices do often have a an important role in research. Valid use cases include These include being used for temporary data storage (e.g. scratch space) or holding places for data prior to backup.
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IFS is performance not sufficient (read/write performance or network latency)
Needs a virtual server with storage attached (via iSCSI, fast disk, etc. to be provided via IaaS or Nutanix)Needs mixed NFS/SMB
Scratch space or temporary data that is held on a NAS and quickly moved to another location (provided it is not level 3 data)
NAS is staging data from an instrument device prior to being moved to a central storage system such as RCS, RDS or IFS (e.g. HPC)
Physical proximity or direct connection to an instrument is necessary
What to do if a NAS device is not suitable?
If your you previously had a NAS device connected to the network but it does not meet the above criteria above, you should consider the many central University data storage services available. It is anticipated that many of the situations in which NAS devices are were used IFS would be suitable. If your budget does not stretch to central services speak with CSCS or your Business and Operations Manager to discover what options may be available. The University have agreed to underwrite IFS costs for a period to allow grant applications to catch up with spending requirements. Options are currently being explored for research data.
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Research Cold Store - (RCS) https://www.hpc.cam.ac.uk/research-cold-store
To opt to move your data to one of the above central services please fill out this Microsoft Form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=RQSlSfq9eUut41R7TzmG6eI5ps7YxvhOpLs9ngrUbvRUMUlZQzc3U0FMMkxWRVU3RFY5WFlWRjFXQi4u . Ensure you indicate at the bottom of the form which service you think will be most suitable. CSCS will review the form and get back to you to organise the movement of your data.
Suitable NAS devices
If your NAS device meets any of the suitability points above, fill in this form to request that it be reconnected to the network - Microsoft Forms. Your response will be assessed and then prioritised and assured before connection to the network.
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