Getting started with computing and storage for non–highly sensitive data
The Standard Security Zone (SSZ) supports most UVA research computing and storage needs. This environment is appropriate for projects using data that is not highly sensitive and provides access to shared high-performance computing systems and data storage.
Access to Research Computing resources is project-based and must be initiated by an eligible Principal Investigator (PI). View more details on the Roles & Eligibility page.
What data is permitted in the Standard Security Zone?
Only the following data types may be processed or stored in the Standard Security Zone:
- Public data
- Internal data
- Sensitive data
- De-identified research data
Highly sensitive or controlled-access data is not permitted in this environment. If your project involves regulated or controlled data (e.g., CUI, ITAR, export-controlled data), view High Security Zone information instead.
Not sure how your data is classified? Review UVA’s data protection standards and data sensitivity matrix for more detailed information or contact Research Computing for guidance.
High-Performance Computing (HPC): Afton & Rivanna
Afton and Rivanna are UVA’s shared high-performance computing systems that support large-scale, computational research across disciplines. They provide access to powerful compute resources that enable researchers to run analyses and simulations that would be impractical on a personal workstation.
Access is project-based and shared, with usage scheduled and prioritized according to the service model selected for your project.
These systems are built to support data-intensive research projects and shared team workflows. They can handle demanding analyses and simulations, including projects that benefit from GPU acceleration. Together, Afton and Rivanna support research across many disciplines at scale.
What you can do on these systems
- Run large-scale analyses and simulations
- Use GPU resources for supported workloads
- Execute compute jobs that require many CPU cores or large amounts of memory
- Share computing resources with collaborators on the same research project
- Schedule jobs to run in the background and check results when they finish
Learn more about Afton & Rivanna
Storage in the Standard Security Zone
Some storage is provided for all users with an active account. Research groups that require more storage or wish to have a shared storage space may lease additional storage. Access to leased storage is granted automatically based on project membership.
Available storage options include:
- Home Storage | Personal storage space
- Scratch Storage | Personal, temporary storage space for fast computing
- Research Standard Storage | For shared data used by a specific research group or project. Not suitable for compute jobs.
- Research Project Storage | For shared data used by a specific research group or project. Suitable for compute jobs
How access works
Compute time in the Standard Security Zone is available through two service models.
- Service Unit (SU) Allocations: Service Units (SUs) are credits consumed as you use shared HPC resources. A collection of SUs makes up what is called an Allocation. Shared HPC systems use SUs to fairly schedule and prioritize usage across many projects.
- Dedicated Computing: This model allows researchers to lease hardware managed by Research Computing as an alternative to purchasing their own equipment. It provides dedicated access to HPC resources within a group.
Access in the Standard Security Zone is managed through Grouper groups. You do not request individual accounts for each collaborator. Individual system accounts are created for group members automatically after the allocation or dedicated computing resource is granted.
Ready to request?
Step 1: Create a Grouper group
A Grouper group is required for all compute and storage access.
- Go to the Grouper application (VPN required when off-grounds).
- Select New Request → Create new Grouper group(s).
- Provide:
- Group name
- Description (Tip: Include “This group will be used for Rivanna/Afton access” to expedite approval.)
- Primary and secondary owners (per ITS requirements)
- Visibility settings
- Submit the request. You will receive an email once the group is approved.
Add project members
- Use Groups I Manage → Add Members
- Add members by computing ID
- Membership (not ownership) controls access
- Note: PIs must also add themselves as a member. This is not done automatically upon the group’s creation.
- Optional start/end dates may be set
New to using Grouper? UVA ITS Services has provided some helpful video tutorials:
Step 2: Choose a service model
After creating your group, choose the service model that best fits your project’s needs.
Cost & pricing overview
Most researchers use Research Computing resources at no cost.
- Standard allocations are free and suitable for most research needs. Requires renewal on July 1st the following year.
- Paid allocations are optional and provide higher job priority when a faster turnaround is needed.
- Dedicated compute is a paid option for projects requiring exclusive access.
Detailed pricing and rate information is available on the Pricing guide.
| Service | When to Use | Charges | Job Priority |
| Standard Allocation | General research use | No Cost | Medium |
| Paid Allocation | Research that needs faster job turnaround | .01$ / SU | High |
| Dedicated Computing | Research with high compute capacity requiring guaranteed availability | Hardware dependent | Exclusive access to leased nodes. The job queue is limited to the group. |
Not sure what you need?
Projects start with a standard allocation and adjust later as needs evolve. If you’re unsure which system, service model, or storage option fits your work, contact Research Computing before submitting a request.
Step 3: Submit your request
Once you’ve created your Grouper group and selected a service model, use the Research Computing Resource Portal to create a new project and request a compute allocation for the project.
Access the Portal and User Guides
Requests for dedicated computing can be submitted using the form:
What to expect next
Provisioning
Research Computing verifies eligibility and provisions resources. Most requests are completed within one business day.
Access confirmation
You’ll receive an email notification when your account is ready. The email will confirm your access, provide next steps for logging in, and point you to recommended training and documentation.
Complete HPC Orientation Training
New users are encouraged to complete the "Intro to HPC” orientation training to learn how to use Research Computing systems effectively. Orientation may be completed by attending a live virtual session or by watching a video recording, and does not delay access.
Manage your project
Use Grouper to add or remove project members. Researchers added to your project group will automatically receive access to the resources you’ve requested.
View instructions on managing members in Grouper
Add storage (if needed)
Request Standard Storage or Project Storage if your project requires additional storage space.
This environment supports most UVA research computing and storage needs. This environment is appropriate for projects using data that is not highly sensitive and provides access to shared high-performance computing systems and data storage.