Cloud services are becoming ubiquitous and many in our community want to take advantage of the variety of services offered. When contemplating or acquiring cloud services, there are several things to keep in mind:

Cloud services — like Box, Microsoft Office 365, and Google Apps — provide an efficient way to store data, access files, and host applications.

The University has negotiated contracts with some providers to ensure that UC employees have access to cloud services that meet UC requirements for security, privacy and liability. Campuses may leverage these contracts and deploy the services locally.

UCSB has published special guidance for free and low-cost cloud services. 

 

Using a UC-authorized cloud service provider helps you:

  • keep data safe and secure, protecting it from unauthorized third-party access;
  • meet federal and state regulations for storing/managing sensitive data;
  • reduce risk and liability for the university in the event of a data breach; and
  • access additional features and storage space.

Information about existing contracts for services and deployment guidance can be found at the UCOP Cloud Services at UC website.

For each of the contracted cloud providers, you will find guidelines for the type of data that can be used. Many of the data types require you to consult with campus resources to determine if a cloud service can be used for a specific purpose. You can find information about campus resources on the UCSB Compliance Directory. 

If you have questions, contact the campus Chief Information Security Officer, its-ciso@ucsb.edu.