Service Status (external link)
Real-time information about service status in Aalto.
Real-time information about service status in Aalto.
Instructions and tips for remote research and creative practices.
TIP! If you are interested in the IT development happening at Aalto University, please check Digital Aalto.
Aalto University provides, manages, and supports computers for its’ researchers. As a researcher at Aalto, you can eitherget a laptop/workstation, use an existing Aalto workstation virtually, or loan a laptop for a short period depending on your needs and departmental recommendations. Scroll down to know more!
TIP! Did you know that you can use an Aalto virtual workstation on your own device from anywhere and use all available software and services offered by Aalto? Skip to the next section to know more!
Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS) encourages researchers and staff to use Aalto virtual workstations wherever possible. However, if deemed necessary, you can also buy/order a laptop or workstation. Aalto ITS supports a selection of standardised PC models that are listed here.
In some units, the order must be placed only by the unit’s technical services personnel. Therefore, please consult with the personnel responsible for IT devices in your unit before ordering and getting the necessary approvals. In addition, Aalto IT Service Desk can advise on choosing the right models for you. Recommended set-ups are put together so that they cover the needs of your research.
You will find instructions on how to order a computer through this page.
Everything you need to know about ordering/buying PCDelivery methods and delivery times of PCs In general, employee laptops and workstations are centrally managed by Aalto ITS. On both managed laptops and workstations, you can become a “primary user” which allows you to install needed software and it is recommended practice by Aalto ITS. The following table shows the main benefits of using Aalto managed system.
Aalto-managed laptop/workstation benefits for users | Aalto-managed laptop/workstation benefits for department admins |
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Now that you have an Aalto-managed laptop/workstation, here are the end-user instructions for activating your laptop/workstation as well as the quick user guide for Aalto Windows machines.
End-user instructions for workstation activation
In case of questions or issues related to Aalto-managed laptops and workstations, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
A managed laptop offers numerous advantages:
As managed operating systems have been thoroughly tested, they have proved to be reliable. Nevertheless, if any issues arise, IT services offer support.
Aalto ITS provides three choices of operating systems for Aalto-managed laptops.
With a managed operating system, you can focus entirely on teaching and research. In specific environments, such as laboratories, managed installations may not be feasible. In these instances, standalone installations are permitted. Standalone machines must be placed in a restricted network segments without internet access. Aalto Terminal device rule
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) offers virtual Windows 10 and Ubuntu desktops that are located inside Aalto’s network. Using a virtual desktop is like using a physical one. You just need to connect to the desktop from your own device from anywhere by using VMware Horizon platform. You can do this either by installing VMware Horizon Client or through the web browser. Both methods can be used interchangeably. However, please note that it does not work with the old Edge browser.
To check the list of the software available at VDI, visit Aalto Wiki, and search there “VDI”.
As an Aalto researcher, you can also open access for your own Windows research workstation via a remote log-in, from your own home computer, for example. The traffic of the remote connection is encrypted, so using it is safe.
In case of questions or issues related to using Aalto desktops virtually or Aalto VDI service, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
IT Service Desk loans out laptop computers to staff members for a fixed period, for short-term work use. This service enables working even if your own device is in maintenance or there is a delay in equipment deliveries, for example.
NOTE!The loan period for laptop computers is a maximum of two weeks in general. If necessary, a slightly longer loan period can be negotiated.
Everything you need to know about loaning a laptop computer
To loan a laptop or in case of questions/issues related to loaning a laptop computer, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
TIP! If you do not have a need to use your own device, you can use computers in IT classrooms.
In case of questions or issues related IT classrooms, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
As a researcher, it is also possible for you to order IT equipment such as phones, displays, and other additional accessories.
NOTE!The need for a mobile phone and phone model is decided by your supervisor following possible policies in your respective research unit/department. In some units, the order must be placed only by the unit’s technical services personnel. Therefore, please consult with the personnel responsible for IT devices in your unit before ordering and getting the necessary approvals.
NOTE! Aalto University's telephone subscriptions are provided for work use only. This includes calls, text messages, and data. Private use is prohibited, including data services.
Phone models and their recommendations can be freely browsed directly from the ordering portal by choosing "Phones, accessories" from the list. Aalto's current phone supplier is Telia.
Everything you need to know about ordering a phone
Mobile subscriptions are also ordered through the ordering portal by choosing "Mobile subscriptions" from the list.
Everything you need to know about ordering a mobile subscription Everything you need to know about mobile subscriptions and usage
In case of questions or issues related to phones and mobile subscriptions, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
As an Aalto researcher, you can use/lend research and IT tools from Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS), your own unit/department, or Aalto University.
NOTE! Most research and creative practice devices in Otaniemi can be found from Aalto's Device Registry. If you are looking for some specific IT device that you can not find on any of the above resources, please contact IT Customer Relationship manager at your school: [email protected].
To make it easy for you, we have compiled the list and location of commonly asked IT devices by Aalto researchers on one page: Machines, tools and workshops in Aalto for Artistic and Creative Practices
NOTE! To use 3D Printers, researchers need to be familiar with working with 3D printers. To know more know about necessary training, please contact IT Customer Relationship manager at your school: [email protected].
TIP! Did you know that Aalto School of Arts, Design, and Architecture offers a 3D Print workshop for Aalto students and researchers? The workshop is equipped with low- to high-end machines and the latest software that are used as teaching tools and for research support in the fields of design, the arts, and architecture. Everything you need to know about 3D Print Workshop
NOTE! To use high-speed cameras, researchers need to have completed appropriate prior training. To know more know about necessary training, please contact IT Customer Relationship manager at your school: [email protected].
When it comes to buying IT equipment, all IT equipment should be ordered through the ordering portal (http://itorders.aalto.fi) so you can get the Aalto prices/discounts and avoid unnecessary e-mails to get the needed information/approvals for your order. In some units, the order must be placed only by the unit’s technical services personnel. Therefore, please consult with the personnel responsible for IT devices in your unit before ordering and getting the necessary approvals.
NOTE! Acquisition of IT equipment does not involve purchases of non-standard devices for research use or purchases of information systems.
If you need a non-standard device, please check out Tendering of IT equipment
Send an e-mail to the IT Procurement support
If you need a new or updated software/information system, please check out Procurement of Information Systems and consult with the IT Customer Relationship manager at your school. Contact IT Customer Relationship managers: [email protected]
Aalto University has a full licence for the reference management tool - EndNote. It allows users to collect, write, import, organise, and format references. Users can also collaborate and share references with other users having access to the same reference management software.
Aalto transcription services
Aalto University offers transcription services provided by Tutkimustie, which comprises Finnish and English language transcriptions and interpretive transcriptions. Also transcriptions of other types and in other languages can be ordered from Tutkimustie. The services can be used for material that contains sensitive personal data. Delivering and handling recordings and transcriptions containing sensitive personal data should be agreed on separately with the service provider.
-> Details of the transcription services, including prices and instructions
Transcribe and dictate tools of Microsoft Office 365
You can convert speech to text using the Microsoft Word Transcribe tool. In addition, the Dictation tool in Microsoft Word, Outlook, OneNote and PowerPoint lets you use speech-to-text to author content in with a microphone and reliable internet connection.
-> More information on how to transcribe recordings in Microsoft Word
-> More information on how to dictate documents in Microsoft Word, Outlook, OneNote and PowerPoint
Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS)provides and maintains software/licenses to support teaching and research activities.
TIP! Did you know that in addition to Aalto ITS-provided software and licenses, Aalto researchers also can benefit from the largest collection of scientific software and licenses in Finland provided by CSC (Finnish IT center for science)? Scroll down to the end to know more!
By default, some software applications (e.g. MS Office, Visio, MS Teams; Adobe reader etc.) are installed on all centrally managed Windows workstations and you can find the all-inclusive list below.
List of default applications on Windows workstations
In addition to the applications listed above, Aalto ITS offers a wide variety of software for classroom use. From an Aalto Wiki link below, you can find the list of software installed on the windows computers in IT classrooms.
List of Aalto IT Windows Classroom Software
Also, Aalto ITS provides staff members and researchers with applications that can be installed on personal/home computers or use remotely.
List of free software for home computers
In case of questions or issues related to Software and licenses by Aalto ITS, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
If you have campus license suggestions, drop an email to the IT Customer Relationship manager at your school: [email protected].
CSC provides researchers the largest collection of scientific software and databases in Finland.
To read more about all available software/licenses provided by CSC, please visit: CSC: Scientific Software and databases
Aalto AV services provide appropriate audiovisual solutions for meetings and lectures, for instance. AV expert services offer acquisitions, solutions, planning, and implementation related to the University’s Audiovisual (AV) technology. Unigrafia offers to record lectures and video production.
Everything you need to know about Aalto AV services
As an Aalto staff, you can lend some AV equipment (e.g. catchbox, web camera, headset, conference speakerphone, video camera/tripod, video projector, presentation remote) from IT Service Desk.
TIP! Did you know that many of Aalto University's departments/units lend audiovisual production gear to staff members for a fixed period, for short-term work use? Visit https://takeout.aalto.fi/ to know more!
TIP! In case you need media production facilities, Aalto Studios provide media production resources and expertise for all Aalto University. Aalto Studios offer services such as user trainings, equipment takeout, web studios, AV production services, and research facilitation. Visit https://studios.aalto.fi to know more!
To get more information about Aalto AV services or to order a hosting service for meetings, please contact IT Service Desk.
Collaboration tools enable collaboration and data sharing within groups, as well as publishing data to the internet. All the services mentioned below can be accessed with your Aalto credentials (username and password).
Microsoft Teams and Zoom are the two online meeting tools that are supported by Aalto IT services (Aalto ITS).
You can also use Microsoft Teams for sharing documents with your team. To know more about the differences between collaboration tools for storing and sharing files/documents, please refer to: Comparison of different file services/ collaboration tools
To read more about all the collaboration tools used at Aalto University, please visit the SharePoint page for collaboration tools. (Aalto log in required)
In case of questions or issues related to collaboration tools, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
For mathematical collaboration involving formulas and advanced calculation, the following tools are recommended for use by Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS).
In case of questions or issues related to mathematical collaboration tools, never hesitate to drop an email to the IT Customer Relationship manager at your school. Contact IT Customer Relationship managers
For visual and image-based collaboration, the following tools are recommended for use by Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS).
To read more about all the visual and image-based collaboration tools used at Aalto University, please visit the SharePoint page for coloration tools. (Aalto log in required)
In case of questions or issues related to collaboration tools, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
NOTE!To avoid unintentional data leaks, one has to be careful when handling confidential data with collaborators. Please refer to guidance and instructions.
If you are not sure about what is confidential/sensitive data, please check out:
A quick guide to information classifications: what IT systems to use with classified dataSecure processing of personal data
Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS) recommends careful use of Microsoft Teams for collaborations involving data classified as confidential.
For data classified as secret, such as health data, we recommend to organize collaboration using:
Secure operating environment for sensitive data (SECDATA)CSC Sensitive Data Services
In case of questions or issues related to collaborations involving confidential/sensitive data, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
As an Aalto researcher, you can select from the following options when it comes to creating a web page.
Aalto Official | Aalto Spinoff | |
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Homepage | aalto.fi | e.g. batcircle.aalto.fi |
About | Drupal Content Management System for official webpages | Drupal Content Management System cloned for tailored webpages |
Best use case | Ideal for official Aalto webpages; and anyone looking for an Aalto visual and great information flow. | Ideal for funded projects and events, which wants to utilize and clone aalto.fi page and features. |
Price | Free | Starting 3k€ |
Example site | ||
Instructions |
Contact Aalto communication ([email protected]) for applying web page. Check also: Create your own website as part of Aalto University |
Contact Aalto communication ([email protected]) for applying web page Check also: Create your own website as part of Aalto University |
Ease of use | With a relatively small investment of effort into understanding Drupal's structure and terminology, you have the ability to maintain site. | With a relatively small investment of effort into understanding Drupal's structure and terminology, you have the ability to maintain site. |
Features | Aalto University´s official communication platform, with all features and strong communication flow |
Aalto University´s official communication platform, with the benefits plus possibility to development and install features. |
Domain names |
Default domain name is: aalto.fi/SOMETHIN/GIVENNAME Contact Aalto communication |
Contact Aalto communication ([email protected]) to apply for a specific domain name. |
Keywords | official, school, department, event, center, institute, infrastructure, area | cloned, tailored, exhibition, ecosystem, service |
Aalto Wiki | Aalto Blogs | Order Wordpress | |
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Homepage | wiki.aalto.fi | blogs.aalto.fi | Order Wordpress |
About | Wiki is a collaboration and webpage tool. | Wordpress Content Management System for blogs and simple webpages | Wordpress Content Management System for tailored webpages |
Best use case | Ideal for anyone looking for an easy-to-manage simple website or collaboration solution for research projects, intranets, or events. | Ideal for everyday blogging and fairly simple website. |
Ideal for the customized website of your own. Example for projects not under the Aalto University brand. |
Price | Free | Free | Between 18- 100€ / month per webpage |
Example site | |||
Instructions |
Guide for creating a simple web page for research projects or events using Aalto Wiki template. |
Instructions for using the service can be found on the service's 'Help'- page. |
Instructions on setting up a Wordpress-page |
Ease of use | Technical experience is not necessary; it’s intuitive and easy to get a simple site set up quickly. | Technical experience is not necessary; it’s intuitive and easy to get a simple site set up quickly. |
With a relatively small investment of effort into understanding WordPress’s structure and terminology, you have the ability to maintain site. |
Features | Ease of use is a key benefit, but you can't much change a standard layout without IT service. | Ease of use is a key benefit, but you can't much change a standard layout without IT service. |
Easy to use and edit are the key benefits. All features need to install case-by-case. |
Domain names |
Default domain name is: wiki.aalto.fi/display/ Contact Aalto communication |
A default domain name is blogs.aalto.fi/ Contact Aalto communication |
Contact Aalto communication ([email protected]) to apply for a specific domain name. |
Keywords | wiki, collaboration, project, event, intranet | blog, blogging, simple, website, webpage | wordpress, webhosting |
💬 In case of questions related to setting up a web page or website, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
As an Aalto researcher, you can select from the following options when it comes to creating a web page hosting
Wordpress | Aalto Vhosts | Virtual Server | |
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About | WordPress-hosting provided Aalto partner Seravo Oy | Static webpage server | Webserver for IT administrators and advanced users |
Best use cases | Ideal for a webmaster who needs a WordPress server, but doesn't want to do IT e.g. updating WordPress or keep the site data. secured. | Ideal for html-css webcoders. | Ideal for IT administrators and advanced webmaster who e.g. install CMS. |
Price | Most common: WP Mini (13,5€/month for people at Aalto) |
Free | Free |
Instructions | Instructions | Service description | Service description |
Ease of Use | Basic WordPress webmaster skills needed. | Basic HTML coding skills needed. | Web server administration skills needed. |
Features | Basic WordPress hosting. (read more) | The server supports only static content (HTML pages, images etc.) - No PHP etc. | Linux: Red Hat Enterprise Linux Windows: Windows Server |
Keywords | WordPress, hosting | static, website, webpage, HTML, CSS, coding | web, server, windows, Linux, red hat, apache |
In case of questions related to webpage hosting, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Aalto IT and communications |
Aalto Studios Web Studio |
Unigrafia | |
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Homepage | Spinoff pages and wiki customization | studios.aalto.fi/web-studio | www.unigrafia.fi (Aalto.fi > Unigrafia) |
About | Aalto IT and Communication services offer aalto.fi Drupal spinoff solutions and Aalto wiki-page customization and can help Aalto people with their Internet ideas and problems. | Web Studio of the Aalto Studio offers WordPress and other web pages solutions and help Aalto people with their Internet ideas and problems. | Unigrafia offers services for WordPress webpages and website's graphic design. |
Suitability | Ideal for a anyone who wants to utilize and clone existing aalto.fi page and features. | Ideal for a personal consultation about web pages. Be sure to set aside some time for planning. | In-house option for website planning and consultation. |
Price | Drupal spinoff pages start from 3 000 euros | Free/Some charges depending on the service | Average cost 1000 - 6000 Euros depending on the selected services |
Example site |
cluster.seravo.fi (n. 5000 €) hiit.fi (n. 9000 €) |
||
Ease of use | Case-by-case consultation and guidance. Cases mostly projectized. Technical experience is not necessary. | Person-to-person consultation and guidance. Technical experience is not necessary. | Unigrafia's know-how encompasses both design and realisation of websites. Technical experience is not necessary. |
Features | Compliant and secure proofed (accessibility & GDPR), feature-effective, all features development can be utilize for Aalto benefit | Open door, free service. | Cost-effective and put up quickly. |
Keywords | aalto service, Drupal, Wiki | open, door, consultation, service, WordPress | commercial, cost, service, WordPress |
In case of questions related to web page services, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
There are the following three solutions within Aalto for creating a webpage that deals with personal information.
Research portal / ACRIS | Aalto People Hub | |
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Homepage | research.aalto.fi Login: acris.aalto.fi |
aalto.fi/en/people |
About | Public research portal | Personal information portal |
Example site | research.aalto.fi/en/persons/ilkka-niemela | aalto.fi/en/people/ilkka-niemela |
Instructions | aalto.fi/en/services/acris-public-research-portal | Log-in to aalto.fi page, find yourself and click "Edit profile". |
Ease of use | Create a page in minutes mostly accept pre-filled information | All information is created automatically, so mostly is just accepting pre-filled information visibility. |
Features | Aalto University’s official research information platform, with strong linking features. | Aalto People collects automatically information from various sources to your page. |
Best use cases | Research information | Personal information |
Keywords | official, research, projects, activities, publications, merits, metadata, open data | contact, callingcard, about me, networking, keyword |
Aalto Blogs | Aalto Users | |
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Homepage | blogs.aalto.fi | users.aalto.fi |
About | Blogs and personal webpages | Personal website space |
Example site | blogs.aalto.fi/sampsaalaakso/ | users.aalto.fi/~juhajuvo/ |
Instructions | Blogs 'Help'- page. | users.aalto.fi |
Ease of use | Technical experience is not necessary; it’s intuitive and easy to get a simple site set up quickly. |
Relatively uncomplicated installation and setup. Basic HTML coding skills needed. |
Features | Ease of use is a key benefit, but you can't much change a standard layout without IT service. |
You can design your website exactly how you want it without worrying about forced features. |
Best use cases | Blogging | Personal promotion |
Keywords | blog, blogging, simple, website, webpage | personal, space, html, css, coding |
In case of questions related to personal information webpages, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Research data management is about how you do your research. Properly managed research data creates competitive edge, enables open science and is an important part of a high-quality research process. Aalto University provides services, instructions and support to help researchers manage their data well.
Research Data Management (RDM) and Open Science
For specific data management related topics, please check the following pages:
Data Management Plan (DMP)Storage services for research dataCollaboration tools section aboveData management and storage for scientific computing (scicomp.aalto.fi)Practical steps to publish research data
The Aalto University Data Hub makes research data easier to find and promotes the reuse of costly datasets. Our catalogue of data sources (data sets, databases, vendors, repositories, and other data providers) contains information about data resources, which are available for students and researchers, covering many research fields related to Aalto's six schools. Additionally, our dedicated staff offers supporting data-related services - we are here to help you obtain access to and get started with new data.
Visit our website Browse through our catalogue
The datasets published by Aalto University researchers are listed at our research portal.
Browse datasets at research.aalto.fi
Instructions and sources for finding reusable datasets are available at:
You can access data stored to Aalto Network Drives remotely using VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection.
Establishing a remote connection (VPN) to an Aalto network
Aalto University provides a wide range of storage services for different needs, free of charge. Check these pages for recommendations for research and comparison of available options:
Storage services for research data
Comparison table of different file servicesData storage for scientific computing (scicomp.aalto.fi)
Classify your data to identify confidential data. Take extra care and use storage services that are approved for confidential data. Check the quick guide for the list of approved IT services:
A quick guide to information classifications: what IT systems to use with classified data
Personal data is the most common type of confidential data in research context. Check the instructions for required preparations and proper handling of personal data:
How to handle personal data in research
For data classified as secret, there are a few options to use:
SECDATA environment, audited for research with health and social data
Kaivos is a relational database service hosted by CSC. It is intended for users who want to use MariaDB databases in CSC computing environment without managing their own database server.
Allas is CSC's general purpose data storage service. Allas provides an environment for storing and sharing data. Allas can be used both for static research data that needs to be available for analysis and to collect and host cumulating or changing data
Aalto IT Services recommends the following methods for transferring big files between organisations.
Aalto Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN) is a secure and compliant browser-based digital laboratory notebook. It facilitates better data management practices by enabling electronic searching of metadata, reusing of data, traceability of experiments, and seamless sharing & collaboration. ELN is useful for recording experiment methods and metadata using an intuitive editor for text, tables, images, links and source code. Other features include: templates for experiments, database for products/protocols, timestamping, tags and statuses for experiments, advanced search function, molecule editor, and data export.
Aalto Materials Digitalization Platform (AMAD) is a robust and versatile data infrastructure for experimental & computational materials data. It facilitates data collection, documentation, management, analysis, sharing and reusing in line with the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) principles. It also enables the use of digital research tools, machine learning, and automation. AMAD not only provides access to machine-readable data but is also equipped with machine-learning and AI tools that assist in data analysis, expose hidden correlations in data and aid in the discovery of new relations and novel materials.
Aalto Project List (APL) is Aalto University's internal platform used for managing information external funding proposals and projects and facilitating internal approval processes. The information from this system is the source for Aalto Project List Analytics which supports data-driven decision making.
A short introduction to APL at aalto.fi
Aalto Scientific Computing page contains various texts which describe Aalto Science IT, Aalto ITS, and CSC resources suitable for inclusion in grant and funding applications.
Aalto Science IT, Aalto ITS, and CSC resources
Vision of Aalto University Information Technology and Infrastructure page describes the current IT infrastructure and a vision for the future.
Research and learning infrastructures page lists Aalto University's research and learning infrastructures and also some technology infrastructure.
Research and learning infrastructures
IT Services has professional IT specialists, up to PhD- and doctor-level degree, who have worked for research projects e.g. as an IT, data or an information expert.
There is no existing Aalto-level policy for utilizing service personnel for research projects. We recommend contacting your school CRM for more information.
CRM contact information (if link don't work look below of this page) People Hub - IT Services
Aalto Project List (APL) Analytics is a cloud-based automated reporting service that analyzes Aalto Project List research project proposals and projects statuses. Reports built on APL system data statuses supports data-driven decision-making strategies.
Schools and departments level users who have access to APL system, also have automatic access to APL Analytics. U level users get access to APL Analytics based on request via [email protected]. For more information on user rights, please visit here.
NOTE! Use Aalto credentials to log into APL Analytics. Aalto VPN must be enabled for successful login!
A short introduction to APL Analytics at aalto.fi
Aalto Project List Analytics - Power BI Report Server
In case of questions or issues related to APL and APL Analytics, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Aalto Current Research Information System (ACRIS) is Aalto University’s research information management system. The system contains information about the up-to-date research and artistic activities of the university.
ACRIS collects important research and activity information and makes it visible and available in research.aalto.fi thus improving the impact of Aalto University’s scientific and artistic activity. Access to public portal:
The researchers of Aalto University are expected to submit information about their research activities (papers, artistic and non-textual outputs, datasets, visits abroad etc.) to ACRIS. If you are a researcher, log in to:
For all the ACRIS-specific questions (including questions about publications, activities, profile descriptions, open access publications and open data), never hesitate to contact ACRIS Support: [email protected]
In case of technical issues (like issues with passwords), never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Basic information and a list of widely used analytics and reports.
Home to all reports
Research related reports
Instructions for the use of Aalto University's Power BI Service: how to use and share reports, upload content and track changes in the service. These instructions applies to the use of the service which access rights are based on the job and role in Aalto University.
Aalto University aims to publish all publications according to open access principles. Aalto's Learning Centre helps researchers with questions regarding open science and open access publishing.
Also, the Learning centre supports researchers by providing access to information resources.
Learning Centre services for researchers
Research Services provides support to researchers in finding upcoming research funding calls, applying for fundings, drafting research contacts, and managing research projects.
Research and Innovation sercices for researchers
The innovation advisorsat Aalto evaluate, develop and transfer research project results and inventions to commercial use in close co-operation with researchers.
Commercialization of research results
To know more, do not hesitate to contact Research and Innovation services .
Free credits, software and licenses are sometimes offered for Aalto. It is important to carefully analyze the terms and conditions of the funding before accepting the offer.
Be aware, that
To analyze the terms and conditions of a funding offer, we advise you to contact Aalto Legal Services or ask for assistance from IT Services.
For basic IT guidance and troubleshooting, please contact IT Service Desk. You can also contact an IT customer relationship manager at your school for any IT assistance and solution consulting.
Research Specialized IT End User Support (RSITE) is a versatile group of IT experts from department to service unit levels, designed to help especailly researchers with demanding IT support needs. IT experts of the RSITE is available for consultation via online.
Research Specialized IT End User Support - Online reception
In case of questions or issues related to Research Specialized IT End User Support, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Data Agents are researchers who work to improve data management in their department, school, or unit. They are a first, practical, hands-on resource to researchers in their department. Data Advisor is a full-time specialist working on the Aalto University level and support research staff in all departments.
To contact a data agent at your department/school/unit, please check out the contact list of data agents.
The Aalto Research Software Engineers (RSEs) provide specialist support regarding software, computing, data and basically for anything related to digital research, optimization, scaling-up, high-performance computing, artificial intelligence etc.
Check: Everything to know about Aalto's RSE
Minor support is This service is free for everyone at Aalto thanks to a grant from Aalto IT Services. Member schools/departments have more time allocated and are currently CS, NBE, PHYS, and SCI overall (and others may join).
Software engineers can help you with three level:
Instead of hiring your own intern, postdoc, etc. to struggle with certain issues, RSE can help instead. RSE consists of experienced researchers who have relied heavily on computing technology (programming, computing, data) for our academic work, and thus can seamlessly collaborate on research projects. RSE can also do consultation and training. You will have more impact since your work is more reusable, open, and of higher quality. RSE can work on existing projects or you can write RSE directly into your grant applications.
In case you are interested, please go to RSE's daily garage, every day online at 13:00 (Tuesdays are RSE focus days). Or contact them by email: [email protected] or fill out their request form.
The procurement of IT devices and software must comply with the procurement laws and Aalto University's internal processes. Before purchasing new software or services, you must obtain security approvals. Please see Cyber security for projects and small scale development | Aalto University for more information.
The most common IT-related procurement categories are listed in the table below, together with links to more detailed information.
ICT hardware | ICT software and systems | Printing services | Digital media, websites and graphic design |
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Computers and peripherals; mobile devices; AV devices; accessories |
Software licenses; Information systems |
Thesis, publication, business card, brochures and other prints |
Video production; printed and electronic publications; websites; etc. |
To know more, do not hesitate to contact the Procurement support.
NOTE! Aalto University offers free virtual servers for researchers. When it comes to physical servers, those should be purchased by a researcher or a research group because Aalto IT Services does not provide servers or equipment.
The virtual servers are hosted in Aalto University’s own data centre. The offered virtual server is reserved fully to serve a single purpose and in practice, it functions as a normal physical server. The capacity of the virtual machine is chosen by estimated load and can be adjusted when needed.
It is also possible to host servers in clouds. Read more below the cloud section.
Aalto University offers a service for server procurement and installation. Aalto also offers free hosting for servers in a data centre that is designed to offer safe and continuous operation. With the hosting service, you will get higher resilience to failures for electrical power, air conditioning systems and networks.
Virtual server |
Physical server |
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Delivery time one week | Delivery time at most 4 weeks + one week for installation |
Free No need for hardware support contracts |
Price is based on the hardware The hardware support agreement is sold separately |
Excellent for basic use | In most cases too heavy solution for basic use |
Does not require physical space | Needs a physical spot from a rack |
Can be used for hosting websites | Can be used for hosting web sites but often, too heavy solution |
Does not scale well to heavy-duty computing | Can be used for many different purposes including computing |
Can be used to handle confidential data | Can be used to handle confidential data |
Possibility to get administrator rights to the operating system | Possibility to get administrator rights to the operating system |
Remote management possible (out-of-band management) | Remote management possible (out-of-band management) |
Order here: [email protected] | Order here: General purpose servers |
In case of questions related to servers and hosting, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Aalto provides secure and ready to use availability to cloud providers ranging from AI/machine learning to virtual machines, virtual classrooms and labs.
Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS) has a contracts with Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform in order to use cloud infrastructure and applications. For AWS, please see the link for details on availability.
Send Azure subscription requestRead more about cloud services at Aalto
In case you need an adaptive server for computing capacity for permanent or especially for temporary teaching or research purposes, cloud services may be the solution. IT Services will pay reasonable costs, but cost of high volumes will be targeted to the user of the service.
Storing and processing information in public clouds should be done carefully with privacy and security aspects in mind. Confidential information is not allowed in clouds without proper encryption.
To evaluate your case and needs together with IT Services, never hesitate to contact:
CSC (The Finnish Centre for Information Technology in Science) also offers free cloud services for researchers at Finnish higher education institutions.
To start using the CSC services first create a CSC account by logging in to MyCSC with Haka user authentication.
CPouta is a generic service which can be used for most tasks. You can use cPouta to build your own service, do a quick test, have a development platform, build a data processing pipeline, or any other purpose you can think of. The servers are attached to the public internet.
ePouta is designed for processing sensitive data. It allows you to deploy virtual machines and storage resources directly to your organisation’s internal network, not to the internet.
Rahti is a Container Cloud service that makes the deployment of applications easy. Rahti provides a platform for you to host your own applications and make them accessible over the web. Rahti can run many different kinds of applications from web servers and databases to data analysis pipelines.
Description for Rahti Container Cloud Service
CSC provides free user support for the cloud services. The services integrate easily with each other.
Individual workstations or servers | General-purpose servers for light computing |
Virtual machine for computing |
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About | Some workstations or servers can be dedicated to computing | Two Ubuntu servers for light computing. Further info here: Servers for light computing | |
Service provider | Computers owned by departments or research groups | Aalto IT Services | Aalto IT Services or 3rd party: Google, Microsoft, Amazon... |
Cost | Device cost | Free | Free if from IT Services |
Contact | - | [email protected] | [email protected] |
Workstation cluster | Triton | FGCI | |
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About | HTCondor, only for PHYS/NBE/CS. Computing using idle workstation CPUs. | High-performance computing cluster for scientific computing, integrated to Aalto environment. Part of the FGCI resource pool. | Distributed computing grid between Finnish universities. Further info here: Finnish Grid and Cloud Infrastructure |
Service provider | Science-IT | Science-IT (lead from the Aalto School of Science) | Science-IT manages access for Aalto. |
Cost | Free for PHYS, NBE, CS | Free, high usage funded by departments or groups. | Free |
Read more | HTCondor | Triton | Aalto Scientific Computing |
Taito | cPouta | Sisu | |
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About | General-purpose computing, also with GPUs | Cloud platform for computing, a lot of tuning possible, also with GPUs | Powerful supercomputer |
Service provider | CSC | CSC | CSC |
Cost | Research use free, For other uses see CSC pricing |
Research use free, For other uses see CSC pricing |
Research use free, For other uses see CSC pricing |
Read more | Taito | cPouta | Sisu |
Mahti is a supercomputer designed for massively parallel jobs that require large floating point performance and a capable interconnect.
LUMI is one of the most competitive supercomputers in the world, located in CSC's data center in Kajaani, Finland.
The FGCI stands for the Finnish Grid and Cloud Infrastructure. As far as the grid is concerned, computing clusters, situated at different locations around Finland, are logically combined into a grid.
Read moreCSC Computing
In case of questions related to computing, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Aalto IT provides tools and services can be found at below page.
As of now, there is no IoT platform supported by Aalto IT Services (Aalto ITS). However, in case you want to discuss possible IoT-related cloud solutions, never hesitate to drop an email to the IT Customer Relationship manager at your school.
Aalto IT has productized Azure OpenAI GPT3.5 and GPT4 language models. Check the latest information from the Aalto AI page.
If you require the use of language models from public clouds for research purposes, it is recommended to reach out to the IT Service Desk for assistance. IT Services will collaborate with the research group to assess the use case and potentially offer some support in implementing it into the cloud. Additionally, it's worth noting that CSC has the Lumi supercomputer available, which can be utilized for developing expansive AI models.
Aalto offers free network services on campus to researchers. These services include, but are not limited to:
Everything you need to know about Aalto VPN
In case of questions related to the wired networks, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
Aalto IT provides three wireless networks through its centralised system of wireless networks: Aalto WLAN that is directed at staff members (SSID: aalto), eduroam (SSID: eduroam), and aalto open that is aimed at visitors (SSID: aalto open). Wireless networks are free to use for everyone.
Netwrorks name | AALTO | EDUROAM | AALTO OPEN |
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NOTE! Department's own WLAN may be linked to a specific SSID for research purposes.
Everything you need to know about Aalto wireless networks
On Otaniemi campus, we have an internal 5G research network. It is not possible to place calls on this network (internal or external), but the network offers a fast mobile internet connection. The Aalto 5G network is a platform to conduct 5G research and to develop and test 5G applications.
Everything you need to know about the 5G network at Aalto UniversityIn the Otaniemi area, commercial operators have also their own 5G coverage. Devices and subscriptions to commercial networks can be requested from the IT Procurement support.
Send an e-mail to the IT Procurement support
Narrow-Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT) is a communication network for IoT devices. In Otaniemi Area, NB-IoT technology is provided by commercial operators and by the Departments of Communications and Networking.
Low Power Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) is a data network for IoT devices. A device can send small amount of data with a minimal power which makes batteries to last long. LoRaWAN is suitable for static and mobile sensors that are operated by batteries.LoRaWAN in Finland is operated by Digita. Aalto community can use the network free of charge.
Everything you need to know about the LoRaWan
In case of questions related to mobile networks, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
TIP! Wireless Network is available in all classrooms but certain lecture halls and classrooms have improved WLAN capacity. These halls are suitable especially for electronic exams and other network-dependent events. Also, the number of freely available power sockets varies between the rooms.
In case of questions related to WLAN capacity in lecture rooms, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
It is possible to have a sandbox where a research environment can be built safely without disturbing Aalto's production network. A sandbox network is the right solution to build Proofs-of-Concept, to test research setups or to run measuring devices.
Sandbox is:
Contact the IT Service Desk and share the details of the research plan. ITS specialists will build a suitable IT environment together with the researchers.
In case of questions related to setting up a research network, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk.
In case of questions related to cyber security for research, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk or drop an email to Aalto IT Security team.
Researchers need to ensure the privacy of research subjects with the proper handling of research and personal data. Key security concerns are to ensure the confidentiality, accessibility and integrity of research data.
Everything you need to know about cyber security for research (Aalto Security Hub)
We have selected a list of useful links when it comes to IT security for research. Cyber security quick guide Secure use of applications in research Safe programming in research Security of Aalto IT infrastracture and cloud in research Handling of personal data in research Encryption for researchers Encrypting emails and filesNOTE! Any new IT services or tools to be acquired or developed in research projects must follow the security model of Aalto University. Cyber security for projects and small scale development5 questions before acquiring software or digital services
Need help? In case of questions related to cyber security for research, never hesitate to contact IT Service Desk or drop an email to Aalto IT Security team.
Troubles? Don’t panic, the Cyber Security team will help you. Report all security incidents to [email protected].
Not all survey platforms/tools are equally secure. You can find the list of survey tools reviewed for personal data and secure processing of personal data by an Aalto security expert in the following link.
CSC (the Finnish IT Center for Science) is a center of expertise in information technology owned by the Finnish state and higher education institutions. They provide internationally high-quality ICT expert services for higher education institutions, research institutes, culture, public administration and enterprises. All of their services are free to the academic community (paid directly by the state of Finland).
To start using the CSC services first Create a CSC account by logging in to MyCSC with Haka user authentication.
NOTE! On the following link, you can browse the full list of the computing and data management services and tools that CSC provides for researchers. CSC service catalogue for researchersHowever, below we also have selected some of the commonly used tools.
Softwares and licences
High performance computing
LUMI is one of the most competitive supercomputers in the world, located in CSC's data center in Kajaani, Finland.
Mahti is a supercomputer designed for massively parallel jobs that require large floating point performance and a capable interconnect.
Puhti is a supercomputer for high performance computing.
Cloud servers
CPouta is a generic service which can be used for most tasks. You can use cPouta to build your own service, do a quick test, have a development platform, build a data processing pipeline, or any other purpose you can think of.
EPouta is designed for processing sensitive data. It allows you to deploy virtual machines and storage resources directly to your organisation’s internal network, not to the internet.
Rahti is a Container Cloud service that makes the deployment of applications easy. Rahti provides a platform for you to host your own applications and make them accessible over the web. Rahti can run many different kinds of applications from web servers and databases to data analysis pipelines.
Data management and storage
CSC data management and storage
Data analytics
Database
Kaivos is a relational database service hosted by CSC. It is intended for users who want to use MariaDB databases in CSC computing environment without managing their own database server.
Object storage
Allas is CSC's general purpose data storage service. Allas provides an environment for storing and sharing data. Allas can be used both for static research data that needs to be available for analysis and to collect and host cumulating or changing data
Sensitive Data Services
Sensitive Data Services for Research
File sharing
Funet FileSender is a tool to share large files securily outside Aalto using a web browser.
In case of questions related to CSC services, please contact Aalto IT Service Desk or directly CSC Service Desk.
National web portal on research in Finland enables to search for publications, datasets, projects, people, funding calls, research infrastructures and organizations from the Finnish scientific community.
The European Open Science Cloud (EOSC) is an environment for hosting and processing research data to support EU science. On the following link, you can browse the full list of EOSC services. EOSC service portal for researchers NOTE! Some of the services can be taken into use immediately. However, many of them require an agreement with the service provider and technical arrangements. Contact the IT Service Desk to get assistance in starting to use a new EOSC service.
On the list below we have collected a selection of the most commonly used services by researchers.
In case of questions related to EOSC services, please visit EOSC's customer portal.
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IT Service Desk is a contact point for the users of the Aalto University IT needing basic IT guidance and troubleshooting.
Every school has its own IT account responsible who can assist and consult with IT services and cases. They are the main contact point for IT development and solution advice in schools and can be reached at [email protected]
There are the several ways to find people in Aalto. Most popular for research are:
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If you don't find answer you can send a question to your school IT Customer Relationship Managers they can assist and consult with IT services and cases. They can be reached at [email protected].
You can check trainings for IT solutions and services from Aalto -Training to support research page.
Aalto ARTS has also licenses for LinkedIn learning available to all Aalto ARTS staff and students.
For training to use CSC solutions and services, visit CSC - Training page.
If you cannot find desired IT training, don't hesitate to contact IT Customer Relationship Managers at your school or send message to [email protected].
IT, financial and legal services can help you to check the security, legal and IT architecture compliance.
They can examine contract/donation documentation and ensure example that there is no IT architecture nor security limitations, and user rights are fine and there will not be any distribution/update/maintenance difficulties.
Easiest way to contact right people would be send message to your school's IT Customer Relationship Managers or [email protected].
Contact your IT Customer Relationship Manager for remote solution advice at [email protected].