Wynton Transition Project FAQs

Questions? Contact Academic Research Services (ARS)

Overview

Access Wynton Transition Project updates, session schedules, and resources—visit regularly for the latest information.

General Transition Questions

What is the timeline for transitioning data from Wynton to Core HPC and FAC storage?

  1. P3/P4 data must be migrated off Wynton Protected by January/February 2026.   
  1. All other data must be migrated by Spring 2027. The Wynton environment will continue to operate for non-P3/P4 users until then. 

Will there be downtime during the migration?
Minimal downtime is expected during the cutover process, as data is synchronized between Wynton and the new environment daily. You will still be able to access and compute on your data until the final cutover. 

Can my lab designate one person to manage the migration process?
Yes, one representative from the lab can tag and manage group data. However, individual users will need to manage their home directories unless arrangements are made to unify access. 

How do I sign up for Core HPC accounts?
All Wynton Protected users will be able to sign-up beginning in late-December 2025. Check the Wynton Transition webpage for updates.

Can I still access Wynton after migrating Wynton Protected data to Core HPC?
Yes, if you have non-P3/P4 data in Wynton, you can continue accessing that until Spring 2027. However, your Wynton Protected data will no longer be available on Wynton after migration. You can request to have your non-protected data migrated at the same time as your Wynton Protected data and stop using Wynton. Submit a request via https://tiny.ucsf.edu/getfac to add those directories to your Starfish view for tagging.

Data Storage and Migration

How do I tag directories in Starfish, and when can I start?
As of December 19, 2025, the Wynton Protected migration process has changed, and Starfish will no longer be used to tag directories.

Wynton Proteted users and sponsors will receive access to Starfish soon. Those who attend a Starfish demo are prioritized. Those who cannot attend a Starfish demo should review the Starfish FAQs and documentation provided with user credentials. Tagging for Wynton Protected data should be completed by December 31, 2025.

Can I move data from Wynton Protected to regular Wynton storage to extend its use?
This may be possible if all your Wynton Protected data is non-P3/P4 data. If you have a mix of data in Wynton Protected, we recommend fully migrating to CoreHPC. 

What storage options are available on Core HPC?
- Capacity Storage: Use for large datasets; includes backups. 
- Home: Limited, fast storage for scripts. 
- Scratch Space: Temporary storage for computation, with a maximum storage duration of 30 days. 

Do I need to purchase FAC storage to use Core HPC?
Yes, Core HPC does not have persistent storage of its own; project data must reside on FAC storage.

How can I estimate the cost of storage?
Use the Storage Cost Calculator, which accounts for storage costs, backups, and service fees.

Credits and Costs

Will credits from Wynton storage be transferred to FAC storage?
Yes, credits for storage contributions will be transferred based on depreciation schedules (typically five years). The Wynton Transition team will reach out to eligible users.

What if the FAC storage cost is a financial burden for my lab?
Escalate major financial impacts through your department head to Mandy Terrill (ACIO) to discuss potential financial aid. 

Getting Help

Where can I get help with the transition or ask questions?
You can email [email protected] for help. Additionally, Starfish help sessions will be available to guide users through the tagging and migration process. 

Where can I find more information and updates?
A dedicated Wynton Transition page has links to many resources . Visit the CoreHPC webpage for details about features, specifications, and updates.