Overview
This page provides information on how to use Atlas.ti while protecting your data and complying with University security policy. There are several considerations including securing your Atlas.ti account, where to store your data, use of AI features, and which Atlas.ti app you should use. Please read the information below for important details.
This guidance applies to CLA's use of this software. If you're from another college or unit, this guidance may not apply to you. Please seek your own Vendor Risk Assessment.
Using Atlas.ti Securely
Atlas.ti Account
Guidance
Atlas.ti requires you to create an Atlas.ti account. When creating your account, use these practices:
- Use your UMN email address
- Use a complex password. Atlas.ti’s site does not require a complex password or use Duo two-factor authentication. UMN security policy requires that you must use a complex password when two-factor is not available.
- Complex password requirements are below
16 or more in length AND contain two or more types of characters:
- lower case letters
- upper case letters
- numbers
- symbols/special characters
Data Storage
Guidance
Always store research data in a location that is appropriate for the classification and security level. Data Classifications by Type is a good resource for determining the classification of your data.
The specifics of your research data storage location(s) and use of AI should be in your IRB proposal. The review board may provide additional guidance.
Project Cloud
Atlas.ti provides a way to synchronize and share your data between computers using a feature called Project Cloud.
Guidance
Due to security and jurisdiction concerns, use with data other than “Public” data is not recommended. For private-restricted and private-highly restricted data, seek guidance in your IRB application.
AI features in Atlas.ti
Atlas.ti provides some AI features that are currently free (as of summer 2026) but will likely incur a cost in the future.
Guidance
Use local installation for private-restricted data. Local installation means installing the program to your computer’s hard drive.
Not recommended for private-highly restricted data unless accepted by the IRB.
If you’ve determined that AI use is acceptable based on your data classification or guidance from the IRB, you should ensure that AI Features are set to only use AI servers in the United States by adjusting the setting below.
Application Preferences-->AI Features
Application Type (Local or Web)
Local Installation
This is the most secure option and allows the most data security classifications. This version also has the most complete feature set. When used in this manner, data is stored locally on your computer or on approved storage (e.g. H: or S: drives, Google Drive, Box Drive). You may use AI and Project Cloud features if the data security classification allows.
Use on CLA Research Desktops is considered a local installation.
Atlas.ti Web
Atlas.ti Web has a more limited feature set compared to the locally installed application. Use of Atlas.ti Web is only recommended for Public data unless the IRB provides further guidance.
See this Atlas.ti Feature Comparison for a detailed look at the differences.
Summary Table of Data Classification and Guidance
Summary Table of Data Classification and Guidance
| Atlas.ti Locally | Atlas.ti Web | Project Cloud | AI Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| Private-restricted | Y | Not Recommended or per IRB | Not Recommended or per IRB | Exercise Caution. Use local install and set AI Features Server Region to “United States” |
| Private-highly restricted | Y | Not Recommended or per IRB | Not Recommended or per IRB | Not Recommended or per IRB |