What is RFS?
RFS (Research File Service) is a new University-approved central storage facility for active research data, which launched in March, providing a reliable, resilient, secure, and scalable service, with the assurance that research data is safely protected and accessible.
Who can use RFS?
RFS is currently available to internal research staff and can be accessed via SMB (network drive) through the University network, or through VPN outside of the university, for the storage of public and internal (non-confidential) files. Later in the summer, we are aiming to launch the next phase, additionally offering both a solution for storing confidential data, and web front-end access. This will enable us to offer RFS to both internal research staff and their external collaborators.
How much will it cost?
RFS will be free at point of service for up to 20TB per research project until 31 July 2024. Principal Investigators and researchers are invited to request storage through IT Self Service (log in, then search the Service Catalogue for "RFS"). Although ongoing funding is being sought for RFS, if you are requesting storage beyond this date, please be aware that you may be charged for this. You will be made aware of any future charges well in advance.
Talk with your local IT support
Principal Investigators should discuss their research storage requirements with their local IT Support team before requesting RFS storage to ensure RFS is the most appropriate place for their research data. IT Support can discuss any risks involved and may offer alternative storage options to consider, such as the 2nd Tier Storage for MSD - researchers in MSD should contact MSD IT Services or your local IT Support Team as appropriate.
Find out more
You can find out more about RFS through the help page, emailing, or by joining the RFS Teams User Group using joining code 8l48j0t.
