AWS Snowball | Using Snowball to Import Data

Question 1

Can I use AWS Snowball for data with Protected Health Information (PHI)?

Using Snowball to Import Data

AWS Snowball | Storage

Answer 1

Yes. AWS Snowball is a HIPAA-eligible service. If you currently have a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with AWS, you can begin using Snowball immediately to transfer data into your HIPAA accounts.

Question 2

How do I get started with Snowball?

Using Snowball to Import Data

AWS Snowball | Storage

Answer 2

To get started with Snowball, visit the Getting Started page.

Question 3

How do I transfer my data to the Snowball appliance?

Using Snowball to Import Data

AWS Snowball | Storage

Answer 3

When you connect the Snowball appliance to your network and set the IP address using the E Ink display, you’ll need to download three things from the AWS Management Console:

1. Snowball client: The software tool that is used to transfer data from your on-premises storage to the Snowball appliance. For more information on the Snowball client, see the Tools page.
2. Job manifest file: An encrypted metadata file that is used to uniquely identify your data transfer job.
3. Job manifest unlock code: A 25-character code to unlock the job manifest file.

When you have downloaded these files, you launch the Snowball client and provide the Snowball appliance’s IP address, the manifest file path, and the unlock code. A sample Start command is below:

snowball start -i {Snowball IP} -m path/to/the/job/manifest} -u {unlock code}

After you launch the client and provide this information, the cilent is now connected to the Snowball appliance and is ready for use. Next you’ll need to identify the file directories you want to transfer to the appliance and then wait for the transfer to complete. A sample Copy command is below:

snowball cp /path/to/data/on/source/storage/device/directories Snowball/bucketname

Question 4

What do I do when the data has been transferred to the Snowball appliance?

Using Snowball to Import Data

AWS Snowball | Storage

Answer 4

When the data transfer job is complete, the Snowball appliance’s E Ink display automatically updates the return shipping label to indicate the correct AWS facility to ship to. Just drop off the Snowball appliance at the nearest UPS shipping facility and you’re all set. You can track the status of your transfer job by using Amazon SNS, or text messages, or directly in the AWS Management Console.