FAQs

The gcrNet is modeled upon the network design for a Science DMZ. A Science DMZ is a purpose built network designed to support scientific and research activities and not general purpose or enterprise computing. For more information, visit: http://fasterdata.es.net/science-dmz

The gcrNet is available to faculty and researchers at UNC Greensboro, NC A&T State University, and their research collaborators. A project must be submitted for use on the gcrNet by a faculty member from one of the participating institutions.

Connecting to the gcrNet from your workstation requires a VPN connection. This connection will allow you to access the general login server as well as other resources on the gcrNet.

The best method for transmitting data in and out of the gcrNet is to use the Data Transfer Node (DTN). The DTN supports the use of Globus for high speed data transfers between other DTNs, and Globus Personal Connect supports transfers to your local workstation.

A DTN is a system built to support large, high-speed data transfers. The gcrNet uses Globus.

The gcrNet uses a different security model than typical enterprise networks. By default, the gcrNet cannot be accessed directly from the internet, but can be accessed from peered research networks. In addition to limiting access to known networks, the gcrNet also deploys intrusion detection systems to identity malicious behavior.

Not directly. The design of the gcrNet makes it a poor choice for typical computing activities and is meant to support scientific instrumentation and computing infrastructure.