The Flow Lab Data Server serves as a temporary solution for storing and transferring data files generated within the Flow Lab. It’s important to understand that you, as the data generator, retain ownership of your data and are responsible for its management, adhering to the data storage and retention policies mandated by your research funding agency.
Gaining Access to Your Data Server Account
Upon completion of the Flow Cytometry Introduction class, you will receive an email from [email protected]. This email will contain your unique login credentials and a temporary password, alongside clear instructions for setting up a personalized, secure password. For any issues related to login credentials or passwords, please directly contact [email protected] for prompt assistance.
For immediate password changes from your temporary one, please visit: https://www.medicine.wisc.edu/password.
Utilize the Self Service Password Reset portal for convenient password management: https://identity.medicine.wisc.edu/sspr/private/login
If you haven’t received your access credentials after completing the class, or are experiencing issues, do not hesitate to contact the Flow Lab directly at [email protected].
Establishing a Connection to the Data Server
To connect to the Flow Lab Data Server, use the following link: https://filr.medicine.wisc.edu
Detailed instructions for connecting to the Flow Lab Data Server are available in PDF format for both PC and Mac users:
For PCs
For Macs
Understanding Your Data and Account Responsibilities
Remember, the primary function of the Flow Lab Data Server is for the short-term storage and efficient transfer of data files originating from the Flow Lab. It is not intended for long-term archiving.
Efficient Data Transfer with Drag & Drop Functionality
The Flow Lab now utilizes FILR, a secure and user-friendly file sharing platform, enabling web-based access to your valuable data. For enhanced convenience and drag & drop file transfer capabilities, the FILR program can be easily downloaded and installed directly onto your computer. This streamlined approach simplifies data management and access.
Data Retention Policy: Managing Older Files
To maintain optimal server performance and storage capacity, data older than 2 years will be systematically removed from the server at the conclusion of each calendar year.
For example, any data created before January 1, 2022, was removed from the server on December 31, 2023. To ensure you are aware of this policy and can manage your data effectively, annual reminders will be proactively sent via email in October of each year to all users with active lab folders.
Again, it is crucial to reiterate that the Flow Lab Data Server is designed for temporary data staging and transfer of files generated within the Flow Lab environment. It is not a permanent archive solution.
For any questions or clarifications regarding data management or server usage, please contact Kathryn Fox directly at [email protected].
Restrictions on Protected Health Information (PHI)
Strictly adhere to the policy that prohibits the storage of any data containing Protected Health Information (PHI) on this data server. This is a critical security and compliance measure.
Accessing the Server from Department Computers
If you are working on a Department of Medicine IT-administered computer, you should readily find the FLOWLAB server displayed on your desktop upon logging in with your Department of Medicine IT credentials. This provides seamless local access within the department network.
For accessing your data from alternative computers or remotely from off-campus locations, simply follow the FILR access instructions provided above, utilizing your Department of Medicine IT credentials for secure login.
Account Inactivity and Deactivation
To maintain server security and resource efficiency, user accounts that remain inactive for a period of 14 months will be automatically deactivated. Should you require reactivation of an inactive account, please promptly contact the Flow Lab at [email protected], and they will assist you with the reactivation process.
