The CTCC has a classic client / server network and extends over two buildings. The connectivity to the scientific network of the University Hospital of Cologne is provided by a synchronous data connection. Redundant firewall systems are used to prevent unauthorised access from the Internet. Centralised infrastructure services, such as active network components, telephony and the e-mail system, are provided and administered by the IT department of the University Hospital. The standardised installation of operating systems and the installation of updates as well as the installation and maintenance of application software are carried out centrally via a software distribution.

The server systems are housed in dedicated server rooms and are secured by an access control system and an alarm system. The rooms are equipped with correspondingly redundant air conditioning systems including temperature Monitoring.

Availability of systems and data

In the local network, four physical host systems are operated in a cluster network. The systems as well as their respective storage and network connections are designed redundantly. A physical backup server, including a local storage system and an automated tape changer, ensures that daily backups can be created and restored at any time. An outsourcing of the data protection tapes in an external building of the University hospital takes place at regular defined intervals. In addition, an encrypted backup is continually written to an emergency system.

Services

The servers are operated within the virtual infrastructure and offer the following services and functionalities:

• File- und Print-Services
• Terminal-Services
• Database Systems
• Client-Endpoint Security
• Server and Service Monitoring
• Ticket System
• Wiki-System

Workplace Systems

On the client workstations, the current Windows-based operating system supported by the manufacturer is used. Windows and application security updates are installed regularly.

• Provision, service, development and dokumentation of qualified IT-infrastructure and related applications to ensure trouble-free operation
• Support for specialist departments in projects
• Projects with an IT-specific background