Store files, backups, archives, and application data in the cloud using managed object storage built on AWS. Unlike mapped drives or personal file sync tools, this service is designed for large volumes of data, automated workflows, and long-term retention.

Access is provided through an ITS-managed portal that integrates with your URI account. Two storage tiers are available: a standard tier for data you access regularly, and a deep archive tier for low-cost long-term storage of data you rarely need to retrieve. ITS will recommend the right tier based on your use case.

Contact: its-citi@uri.edu (ITS Cloud & IT Infrastructure)

Amazon S3

Features

  • Scalable cloud storage — no capacity limits, highly durable
  • Standard tier — for data that is accessed regularly
  • Deep archive tier — for long-term retention at very low cost; ideal when you need to keep large amounts of data but rarely access it
  • Access controlled through URI Single Sign-On (SSO) — sign in with your URI account, no separate credentials to manage
  • Works with common file transfer tools such as rclone, Cyberduck, and the AWS CLI
  • Data is encrypted in storage and in transit
  • Considering other storage options? OneDrive (included with Microsoft 365) for personal and collaborative file storage; Network File Shares for departmental mapped drives; Open Storage Network for large-scale research data that does not contain HIPAA, FERPA, or other sensitive information

Access

Available to URI faculty, staff, and departments. Contact its-citi@uri.edu with a description of your use case — what data you’re storing, roughly how much, how often you’ll need it back, and any retention requirements. ITS will provision storage and set up access.

Once provisioned, storage is typically accessed via S3-compatible clients such as Cyberduck, WinSCP, or rclone, or via command-line tools such as the AWS CLI. Browser-based read-only access is also possible.

Support and Training

ITS manages the storage infrastructure and access system. Organizing and managing the contents of your storage is your department’s responsibility.

For questions or to get started, contact its-citi@uri.edu.