* About: Network file storage and management


Service overview | Who can use it | How to request & access | Cost | Availability | FAQs | Best practices & policies | Training & documentation | Support

Service overview

Files stored on McGill's network (central file servers) are backed up regularly. In the event of accidental data loss, files stored on the network can be restored from the backup server to the appropriate network drive on your computer, as described below.

Departmental file storage for work purposes:
Administrative units are allocated a fixed amount of file storage space on one of McGill's central file servers. Departmental storage space is also referred to as the "departmental share," since many departments may have a share of one large disk space (aka "volume"). On your own work computer, your department's shared files are usually stored on the G:\ drive, and your own work-related files on the F:\ drive. Note: Not all departments will use this drive letter convention.

Network file storage for personal use:
Faculty and staff are given 1GB for their personal use including personal web pages, usually on the R:\ drive. If employees move to another McGill department, their personal files on the R:\ drive remain with them, whereas their work-related files (on F:\ and G:\ drives) stay with the department.

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TIP: Use OneDrive for personal file storage

Students, faculty and staff have access to OneDrive cloud file storage. See OneDrive (cloud file storage). OneDrive is the recommended service for your personal file storage needs.

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Important: New OneDrive storage capacity

Please note that students admitted on and after December 11th, 2023, will receive 20GB of storage for McGill's OneDrive as well as 20GB storage for McGill's email (Outlook).
For now, the storage capacity allotted to students admitted before that date will not be affected.
The storage provided to staff or faculty members will not be affected.

The use of personal file storage (on the McGill network or in OneDrive for Business) is subject to McGill's Policy on the Responsible Use of McGill IT Resources.


Who can use it

McGill faculty, staff have access to departmental shared drives for work-related files, as well as 1 GB of personal storage space.

For students, we strongly recommend using OneDrive (cloud file storage) for your personal file storage needs.


How to request & access the service

Requesting additions or changes for file storage


Accessing network files

All users need a McGill Username and McGill Password to access work and personal network drives.


Cost

There is no cost for the default allotment of storage space (both personal and departmental) for units that have a Service Level Agreement with IT Service - Customer Support.

For researchers who wish to increase their personal storage, there is a one-time fee of $40/GB with a FOAPAL and $60/GB with client ID.


Availability

The service is available 24 X 7, except during planned maintenance or outages. Check the home page of the IT Support site for announcements regarding service interruptions.


Frequently asked questions


Best practices & policies

For tips on efficient file storage and management, see Best practices for file storage at McGill.


Training & documentation

None available


Support

Contact the IT Service Desk