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Overview
FileDepot is a service that provides space to temporarily store large data files intended for recipients within or outside of the university.
This drop box type service addresses the need for sharing files that are too large to be e-mail attachments.
The maximum file size is 2 GB and files are automatically deleted from the space 14 days after upload. No manual clean up is required.
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FileDepot vs. FileDepot Internal
FileDepot (https://filedepot.msu.edu (link)) can be used by both MSU and Non-MSU users. It features email notification of drop-off, hot link for pick-up, and Secured Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption for both data upload and download. Files are not stored encrypted unless they were encrypted prior to uploading.
File Depot Internal (https://filedepot-internal.msu.edu/ (link)) is restricted to use by those with MSU accounts only. It requires a login with MSU NetID and password both for picking up as well as dropping off a file. As with FileDepot, File Depot Internal features email notification of drop-off, hot link for pick-up, and Secured Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption for both data upload and download. Additionally, it features an encrypted file storage system for protection of sensitive data.
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MSU User vs. Non-MSU User
MSU user (inside user): A member of the MSU community with an MSU NetID and associated @msu.edu email address.
Non-MSU user (outside user): Anyone outside the MSU community with a verifiable e-mail address. Note: The e-mail verification step is required only for drop-off to an MSU user, not pick-up.
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Accessing FileDepot
The FileDepot service is web-based and accessed via https://filedepot.msu.edu (link).
Alternatively, when a user has received an e-mail notification of a dropped file, they can click the provided link to automatically access the shared file via their browser.
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Sharing sensitive data files
MSU users should make certain that their use of this service and any sharing of data is compliant with the MSU Institutional Data Policy (link).
It is best practice to use file encryption when sharing a data file with any level of sensitive data.
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FileDepot Internal
FileDepot Internal (https://filedepot-internal.msu.edu/ (link)) is available for appropriately sharing more sensitive data files between parties at Michigan State University.
This system is only available to people with MSU credentials. FileDepot Internal has additional features (link) that address institutional data requirements. It is best practice to require a password before it can be opened by the recipient.
Learn more about which data are considered sensitive at the Securing Institutional Data (link) website.
Please note that the same file size limit and expiration policy as stated above applies to the internal use as well.
Browser note: Use Edge (Windows) or a current version of Firefox (all platforms) for best results. Safari and Chrome may not work correctly.
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Inbox and Outbox
Members of the MSU community who log into File Depot are provided an Inbox and an Outbox.
Access the Inbox to locate and download a file(s) dropped off for you.
Access the Outbox to view the information such as the recipient email address or to redisplay the Drop Off Summary that displayed upon the initial processing of the drop.
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Known Issues and Limitations
Login access to FileDepot requires that the user's name be in the People Search directory. If you are an active student and unable to log in, check your FERPA privacy settings in your student account and adjust to allow publication of your name.
Older versions of Google Chrome (not officially supported by the developer) sometimes displays odd behavior during File Drop off and cautions about 'Leaving this page". Click through the warning to get the file to upload.
File Depot does not support folder uploads. To upload multiple files, use file compression software to create a single file to upload.
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