Data Storage
Transferring Data
Transferring Data
Please note that we intend this document to complement HBS IT’s security guidelines, with the knowledge that their page is the authoritative source.
Transferring Data to/from HBSGrid (Compute Cluster) Storage
For various options for copying files to and from the HBSGrid, please see our documentation on Accessing HBSGrid Data Storage.
- Direct Transfer (e.g., SFTP/Mapping a Drive)
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Harvard Secure File Transfer Web Application
Security Level Allowed: Level 4
Harvard's Secure File Transfer is an easy-to-use resource for both HBS users and collaborators. Like SFTP, files transferred through this option are also encrypted. Secure File Transfer is ideal for data smaller than 50GB.
Email
Security Level Allowed: Level 2
Although this may be the easiest method, using email is not a secure method for sending confidential/sensitive data. Furthermore, email attachments must be very small (25MB or below).
- Cloud Sync (e.g., DropBox, OneDrive, Google Drive)
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When using Cloud Sync to transfer data, please be aware of the security level of your data as not all services have been approved by HBS IT to handle data with higher security requirements.
SharePoint Team Sites
Security Level Allowed: Level 3
SharePoint Team Sites are a group of web pages that allow teams to collaborate on projects.
One Drive Client
Security Level Allowed: Level 3
One Drive Client is a cloud sync client that provides access across devices and the ability to share files with others. For additional information, see: https://inside.hbs.edu/Departments/it/howto/OneDrive/Pages/OneDrive-for-Business.aspx
DropBox
Security Level Allowed: Level 2
DropBox provides easy access across devices and team members and is free for up to 2GB of data. For additional information, see: https://inside.hbs.edu/Departments/it/howto/Dropbox/Pages/Dropbox.aspx
Google Drive
Security Level Allowed: Level 2
Google Drive allows for easy sharing across devise and team members and is free for up to 15GB of data. Note that some schools, but not HBS, have an agreement with Google for secure storage of data in Google Drive.
- Third-Party Transfer Tools
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Security Level Allowed: Potentially up to Level 3
Third party transfer tools such as Globus are available, but please contact RCS directly if interested in using them in the HBS environment. Depending on the tool, it may only be appropriate for transferring Level 1 and 2 data.
- Mail / ”Sneaker Net
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Security Level Allowed: Potentially up to Level 4
Individuals may elect to mail ("snail mail") or hand deliver (i.e., “Sneaker Net”) electronic data on a external portable storage device. This can included devices like flash drives. Note that if the data are Level 3 or higher, the external portable storage unit must be encrypted and password protected.