Getting started

Globus is a service for secure and reliable research data management. At the University of York, it connects key storage systems like the Viking HPC cluster, university filestores, and personal computers through a single web interface.

A key feature is its ‘fire and forget’ transfer capability. Once a data transfer is initiated, you can disconnect and let Globus manage the process in the background. It automatically handles network interruptions, verifies the integrity of your data, and sends you an email notification once the task is complete.

Beyond data transfers, Globus provides a secure method for sharing data with external collaborators. This allows you to grant access to specific folders without the need to create temporary local accounts on the storage system.

Accessing the Globus web app

To get started with the Globus web app, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Globus website and click Log in. Select University of York from the organisation list and sign in using your university credentials.

  2. The first time you log in, Globus will ask for your consent to use your identity to access information and perform actions on your behalf. You must grant consent to proceed.

  3. After logging in, you will be directed to the File Manager, where you can browse the available University of York collections.

Requesting a new collection

If none of the existing UoY collections points to the specific area on Storage where your data is located, you will need to request a new Globus Collection. Please contact itsupport@york.ac.uk and provide the following information for the new collection setup:

  1. The location on Storage where you would like a collection to be created

  2. The name that you want to give this collection

  3. Any additional description or keywords that help describe the collection’s content (optional)

Connecting your personal computer

To transfer data directly from your personal computer to other Globus collections, you can set up your machine as a ‘Personal Collection’ using Globus Connect Personal.

  1. Download and install Globus Connect Personal: Go to the Globus Connect Personal download page and install the software for your operating system. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your personal collection.

  2. Access your personal collection: Once Globus Connect Personal is running on your computer, your personal collection will appear in the Globus File Manager. You can find it by searching for the name you gave it or by filtering for Administered By You.