Why Use Highly Secure Computing?
Stronghold is a secure computing and storage environment that allows Brown researchers to analyze sensitive data while meeting regulatory and contractual requirements. It adheres to federal and Rhode Island laws for data privacy and protection. If you work with Level 3 Data, which includes personally identifiable information (PII) such as names, addresses, and dates of birth, or Protected Health Information (PHI) like medical records and billing information you should use Stronghold. See Brown's Data Risk Classification for more information and examples on data risk levels.
With Stronghold, you get dedicated Windows or Linux virtual workstations that you and your collaborators can access remotely. Workstations come with standard software packages but can be configured to fit your specific research needs.
Security Features
Download data from whitelisted agencies via HTTPS and SFTP. A secure transfer service scans files for viruses and lets authorized users exchange data with approved organizations or their own computers.
As the lead researcher for your environment, you can receive automated reports showing who is in each security group, when users signed in, and what file transfers took place. All file access is logged and audited.
Store your data in encrypted or unencrypted storage arrays. Access to databases like Oracle, MySQL, and REDCap within a protected environment that supports encrypted data and strict access controls.
Access the system on campus through Brown Wireless or off campus through the Brown VPN, with two-factor authentication.
The hardware is housed in a dedicated, private, and fire-suppressed facility with card access, security cameras, and a locked enclosure, with physical access limited to approved OIT staff. The operating system is kept secure with patches applied at least monthly. A dual firewall provides an extra layer of security for traffic coming in and out of the system.
Changes made to remote Git repositories are automatically pulled to local repositories in Stronghold through our secure transfer server.
Is Stronghold Right for You?
Stronghold is for you if you work with Level 3 Data, which includes personally identifiable information (PII) such as names, addresses, and dates of birth, or Protected Health Information (PHI) like medical records and billing information. It is also suitable for handling restricted research data governed by specific legal or contractual obligations.
As a Principal Investigator, you can begin using Stronghold for your research by requesting an environment today.
Contact Us
Need help determining if your research data requires Stronghold's secure environment? CCV can help! We offer consultations to assess your data classification requirements and determine if Stronghold is the right solution for your data privacy needs.
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