1. Introduction

Unlike the HFS backup service, the HFS archive service is subject to a formal application procedure: archiving requires explicit permission over and above the eligibility criteria for backup. If you are engaged in a project which produces data of long term value to the University, perhaps in large quantities such as experimental or image data, you should refer to the Policy on Computer Archiving Services. Please also bear the following considerations in mind:
  • Data retention

    Data cannot be archived indefinitely. We ask project applications to state a realistic lifetime for a project, perhaps coinciding with the period of initial data acquisition or initial stage of funding. Some projects have a natural conclusion whereas others may extend beyond the initial retention period. In the latter case, such projects may make a further case for continued archival. Typically, projects are granted archival for 1-5 years. At the end of the retention period the data will be deleted from the HFS archive system, unless the project seeks, and is granted, approval for a further period of archival.

  • Backup accounts

    Archived data must not be backed up to the HFS backup service. Where a client machine is sending data to both the backup service and the archive service, the TSM software must be configured in such a way that avoids sending the same data to both backup and archive. We can help with the setup of this configuration. In practice this normally requires a physical separation of the archive data from backup data on the client (for example into a separate partition or root folder-path).

  • Costs

    Long-term projects, and those requiring large amounts of data (> 1TB) will probably be asked to contribute to the on-costs of archive storage (see the HFS Service Level Description). Externally-funded projects should have a defined element for data storage and will be expected to contribute to these costs.

Please use the archive request form to submit your application for your data to be archived on the HFS.

The configuration and use of the TSM archive / retrieve client software differs subtly from the TSM Backup / Restore client. For this reason you are strongly encouraged to read the following sections in order.

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