Why should I use AWS from UIS?
UIS has negotiated framework agreement with AWS through the University's procurement process so that institutions can benefit from scalable cloud based infrastructure without the need to complete their own procurement exercise. This simplifies and streamlines obtaining cloud based infrastructure from AWS for your Institution.
How long will it take to get AWS?
Initial setup of an AWS organization should take no more than a week, often it will be faster, but turnaround times may vary. Please also bear in mind that it make take some time to raise a purchase order within your Institution, which is needed for your order to be fulfilled.
What is an 'AWS Organization'?
Each AWS Organization is a separate AWS institutional account unit assigned to a subscribing institution. IT Managers can set up as many sub-accounts needed for different groups and individuals within an institution and use this to manage their institutional users. All bills are sent to the AWS Organization for your Institution.
Who are the key contacts at AWS and can I talk to them?
The University's Account Manager is Nick Jefferson.
Tel: 07767 000010
The AWS Solution Architect is Juan Manuel Gomez.
Tel: 07827 553157
Who should I talk to about my AWS bill and charges?
Any questions relating to your AWS Organization bill, payments or charges incurred should be directed to the University's AWS Account Manager at Amazon.
What AWS products are available?
AWS offers a wide range of cloud products. Check the AWS Product Catalogue for details.
Is AWS secure?
AWS operates a shared responsibility model for security and compliance. Institutions are strongly recommended to review this to understand what measures AWS provides and what measures they may need to put in place to ensure that any data transferred to AWS is held securely.
Is AWS compliant with data protection law?
AWS is General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)/Data Protection Act (2018) compliant. The UIS framework agreement contains the necessary provisions to comply with the technicalities of data protection law, including data processing clauses and clauses to enable the transfer of personal data outside the EU/EEA. AWS provides a range of resources in AWS Artifact to assist institutions in ensuring that their use of AWS complies with the GDPR.
The AWS Service Terms include statements regarding data protection and the AWS GDPR Data Processing Addendum provide further details on this aspect. Please note that the University's AWS contract terms specifically exclude AWS from any liability as a result of data loss and provides very low levels of liability regarding any other form of defaults.
Can I use AWS to store health data?
If you are considering transferring or storing any health data, including anonymised health data, in AWS you must consult Research Governance in the Clinical School first.
How do I determine what sort of data can I store in AWS?
The University has developed a 4-tier classification system for data which should be used to help you make decisions about suitability. Level 0-2 data is generally suitable for use with AWS. For Level 3 data you must carry out a thorough assessment of the suitability of AWS (including any data storage requirements made by research funders) before transferring any such data to AWS. Additionally advice should be sought from Legal Services or (where personal data is involved) the Information Compliance Office.
What terms and conditions govern my use of AWS?
You must ensure that any use of AWS is in accordance with the AWS Acceptable Use Policy at all times. Your use of AWS is also bound by the AWS Service Terms and any other terms, conditions and policies published by AWS. Please read the AWS Contractual Obligations page which highlights key elements of the University's AWS contract.
Can my research group use AWS?
If your research group is within one of the Schools or Faculties, in any Institution directly under the supervision of the General Board or the Council or is a cross-institutional research group that has a separate billing and/or accounting unit in CUFS then you can make use of the University's framework agreement. Talk to your local IT Manager about gaining access to AWS.
Additionally researchers and research groups may be eligible for AWS Cloud Credits for Research.
Can my College use the University's AWS agreement?
We regret that the Colleges are not covered by the current AWS framework agreement. Please contact the University's AWS account manager to discuss setting up your own arrangements, costs, etc.
Can my 'affiliated institution' use the University's AWS agreement?
We regret that University 'affiliated institutions' (listed here) are not covered under the current AWS agreement. Please contact the University's AWS account manager to discuss setting up your own arrangements, costs, etc.