Secure data access Services
The SafePod Network (SPN) provides a range of secure data access services (known as SafePod, SafePoint and SafePack) to enable Researchers to have access to their project data from Data Centres that are part of the SafePod Network. Each service is standardised and includes security policies for their management and use. See below for a security summary and further information about each SPN Service.
SECURITY SUMMARY FOR SPN DATA ACCESS SERVICES
The table below summarises the security provisions incorporated into each SPN Service.
| Security element | SafePod | SafePoint | SafePack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standardised room design | |||
| Standardised room specification | |||
| Standardised door control access system | |||
| Dedicated Coordinator management | |||
| Standardised SPN IT System for data access | |||
| Standardised policies for management and use | |||
| Standardised SPN IT System for data access | |||
| CCTV camera with footage review | |||
| Safe Proximity System (monitor display protection) | |||
| Location tracking for SPN IT System |
SAFEPOD
A SafePod is a standardised safe setting that provides the security and controls for data that requires secure access for research. A SafePod includes local Coordinator management, a door control access system, CCTV, a researcher area for data analysis, secure IT cupboard, monitor protection, two 27" monitors and a height adjustable desk. SafePods are located at universities across the UK.
Click to view SafePod locations
SAFEPOINT
A SafePoint is also a standardised safe setting that provides the same security and controls as SafePod for data that requires secure access for research. A SafePoint consists of a custom built desk with in a SPN approved room. There are 3 SafePoint Desk models available with 34" monitors.
- SafePoint Single Desk: A single desk supporting 1 or 2 researchers working on the same project. The desk is height adjustable and has 2 x 34" monitors.
- SafePoint MultiDesk: Two single desks divided by an electronic partition to enable researchers to work on seperate projects. Transforms into one large collaboration desk to enable up to 4 researchers to work on the same project (as shown in picture above). Desk contains 4 x 34" monitors.
- SafePoint MiniDesk: A small single desk supporting 1 researcher. It has 1 x 34" monitor.
For more information on SafePoint, desk models and funding opportunities click the button below.
SafePoint Information and Application Procedures
SAFEPACK
SafePack is a new innovative solution from the SafePod Network designed to provide researchers with secure data access from both office and home environments. SafePack is a compact and robust case containing the the essential equipment and security needed for data access. This includes the SPN IT system, CCTV camera, monitor protection, and location tracking.
A researcher simply connects keyboard, mouse, monitor and network cables to the SafePack to access their project data. The image shows a prototype currently in development, with a launch expected in 2026.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information on SPN Data Access Services contact the SafePod Network on 01334 463901 or email safepodnetwork@st-andrews.ac.uk.