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The following set of FAQs are intended to provide users of the Gator-Data system with an overview of how the system is constructed, how the service is hosted and the steps that Gator-Data have taken to secure commercially sensitive data stored within the system.
What is the Gator-Data system?
Gator-Data is a Microsoft enterprise application, built using the Microsoft Distributed iNternet Application (DNA) architectural guidelines. It is implemented primarily as a SQL Server 2000 database. An administrative application, written in Microsoft Visual Basic, facilitates total control of the database content and access through the website by providers and end users.
The web site/application is written with Microsoft Active Server Pages (ASP). The system also uses a service component to automatically schedule, generate and send customised extracts of data to end users. All communication between the database and website/administrative/extract service application is performed through a Microsoft Transaction Server (MTS) COM+ Component to implement a high level of security, concurrency and scalability.
Where is the Gator-Data system hosted?
The system is hosted within a fully managed, high security environment by Virtual Internet located at Level(3) Communications in London. Follow the link for more detailed information about our hosting partner. -> Virtual Internet Data Centre
What type of computer Gator-Data system hosted on?
The computer that is used to host the Gator-Data system is a dedicated, rack mounted HP Proliant DL360 G3 server. The system has the following specification:
  • Dual Xeon 2.4Ghz processor
  • 1GB memory with 512k cache
  • 2 x 36GB SCSI with hardware RAID 1
  • Dual redundant power supply
In addition the server has a dedicated Cisco Pix 501 hardware firewall for enhanced security.
How robust is the Gator-Data system?
The Gator-Data system has been rigorously tested on numerous platforms and piloted for several months. The system developers took numerous steps to ensure the availability and stability of the system:
  • The system is constructed from very stable technologies such as Microsoft SQL Server, which has an excellent reputation for reliability.
  • The server that the system runs on is professionally monitored and managed.
  • A feedback function has been introduced to quickly gather user's view and frustrations in order to quickly correct them.
  • All new developments to the system are done under strict change, review and retest procedures.
How secure is the Gator-Data system?
In terms of physical security, the Gator-Data system is located in one of the most secure data centres in the country. A number of additonal steps have also been made to secure the system and the data contained within it.
  • The system uses a dedicated hardware firewall to increase security and reduce threats from viruses while maintaining high system throughput.
  • The system has a signed server certificate guaranteeing 128bit encryption using the HTTPS protocol for secure transactions.
  • The system employs numerous backup mechanisms including database and full system backups (on and off site) to ensure user data is not lost.
  • The system also employs numerous auditing and logging mechanisms to analyse user activity and identify misuse of the system.
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