The college provides several ways for Swarthmore researchers to store and back up their data.
Research Data Storage and Backup Systems
CrashPlan
CrashPlan is Swarthmore's main computer backup system. It is the easiest solution for backing up a computer. If all of your research material easily fits on one or two computers, then this is the best way we can help you keep it safe. More information is available on ITS's Crashplan page.
Google Drive
Swarthmore's Google Drive storage is unlimited and can be easily accessed from anywhere and shared with colleagues. Research groups are usually best served with an AODocs folder in Google Drive that will manage permissions. To get an AODocs folder set up for your lab, visit the AODocs Folders within Google Drive page.
CIFS Share
For groups that need a simple way to share files internally, ITS can set up a Common Internet File System (CIFS) share. The CIFS share can be accessed like a network drive, but data is stored securely off campus.
iRODS
For research groups with a large, complex data sets or workflows, iRODS is a good solution. iRODS provides a large amount of data storage and the ability to add metadata to files for easier discovery. There are more sophisticated features available such as adding automated workflows to process raw data.
Storage and Backup Comparison
| Product | Optimal Use Case |
|---|---|
| CrashPlan | All your data fits on your office or lab computer. |
| Google Drive / AODocs | All your your data doesn't fit on your computer or you want to archive rarely used data and remove it from your computer Your data needs to be shared with collaborators |
| CIFS Share | All your your data doesn't fit on your computer or you want to archive rarely used data and remove it from your computer You need to share data among Swarthmore users |
| iRODS | Large data sets or complex storage needs |
Please get in touch with your Academic Technologist for more detailed information on how best to secure your data.