next.hessenbox (cloud storage)

The next.hessenbox is a data protection-compliant and future-proof cloud service for storing, synchronizing and collaborating on files. It is used for sharing and collaborating within project teams, working groups and with external partners.

The next.hessenbox is available to anyone with a UniAccount - especially students, lecturers, researchers and employees who want to store or share files flexibly and securely. External persons without a UniAccount can also be included in the file exchange and processing.

Technical provision and administration is carried out by the IT Service Center.

The next.hessenbox is operated by the University of Kassel as a central service and is available to several Hessian universities as part of a cooperation agreement. It enables file uploads, synchronization across different devices, joint editing and sharing for internal and external persons. The service is similar to commercial cloud offerings, but meets significantly higher requirements for data protection and data sovereignty.

Alternatives include Sharepoint or network drives for local storage in the university network.

• File storage and synchronization
  Files can be managed and automatically synchronized in the browser, via an app or via a desktop client.
• Sharing with individuals or groups
  Files or folders can be shared specifically with other people with or without a UniAccount - optionally password-protected or with an expiration date.
• Collaboration and commenting functions
  Collaborative work on files, commenting, preview functions and activity logs.
• Cross-platform use
  Available in the browser, via app (iOS/Android) and desktop client (Windows, macOS, Linux).

• Versioning:

  Older versions of your files can be restored if required.

• Storage space:
  next.hessenbox offers 50 GB of storage space for storing and managing files.

You can use the Sync & Share service via a client, via the app and also via the browser.

• A project team with members from several universities in Hesse uses the next.hessenbox for the coordinated storage of protocols, reports and research data.
• A teacher makes materials available to students via a password-protected folder link.
• A working group shares large files with external reviewers via temporary sharing links.

• Internet connection
• Current web browser or desktop/mobile client
• UniAccount for internal users
• For external guests: one-time setup of a next.hessenbox guest account

• Internal users log in with their UniAccount via the central platform:
  next.hessenbox.de
• External persons without a UniAccount can receive guest access via an invitation froman internaluser.
  Access for external persons

No training courses are currently offered. The user interface is intuitively designed; the IT service desk can help with any questions.

The data is stored exclusively on servers within the Hessian university network. next.hessenbox meets high data protection standards and enables the secure, GDPR-compliant exchange of personal data. However, the service is not designed for the management of sensitive personal data.

Privacy policy [PDF]

Recommendations for use [PDF]

Use is only permitted for official, study-related and academic purposes within the framework of the university. The responsibility for the uploaded content lies with the user. The university's IT usage guidelines apply.