The Data Security Page

modified 2003-03-18 20:33 , cduke

How the Data is Protected

Database Location

The database is stored at the University of Guelph in different locations. The first location is where the daily work is conducted. Access to the lab requires a special key. The computer requires a password known only to the project leader (C. Duke) and his research technician. The database is stored on a 0.5Terabyte RAID Level 5, if one of the disks were to fail, it is simply replaced and the system rebuilds itself and no data is lost.

Backups are made and stored off-site in the event of a fire in the building. A backup copy of the data is stored on the University mainframe that is only accessible by the project leader. This university system is in a fireproof, highly secure location on campus. The project leader can access this data while he is away. If there was ever an emergency, the project leader could log into the database and perform the data analysis to assist in a quarantine, etc.

An additional copy is burned to a CD. This CD is protected by a password. These regular backups are made so that if errors are made, the analyist could go back and revert to an earlier version. Also, the CD can be brought with the project leader if he goes away for a weekend. When leaving Guelph, he brings his cell phone and laptop with all software necessary to conduct analysis, and is available 24/7.

Data Transfer

When the files from the field technicians around the province are sent to the project leader in Guelph, the files are encrypted using encryption software. The files are decrypted using a password known only to the project leader, the field technicans, and one person at Ontario Pork.

Database Integration

The spatial database will be integrated with Ontario Pork's database towards the end of the project.

.