# Access and authentication

## Are CSC Sensitive Data Services accessible through the public internet?
Yes, SD Connect and SD Desktop are directly accessible through the public internet with any modern web browser (e.g., Google Chrome or Firefox), without installing any software or using a VPN.

## How can I start using CSC Sensitive Data Services?

If you are processing research data, you can set up a CSC account and a CSC project (see: user guide or video tutorials). You can then access the services at any time.

To access register data under the Act on Secondary Use, contact us at servicedes@csc.fi (subject: Sensitive Data) and provide a Findata permit. Then, we will guide you through the following steps. 

Federated EGA, the services for submitting sensitive biomedical data to a national repository for re-use, requires a separate contract. Read the FEGA user guide or contact us at servicedesk@csc.fi (subject: Sensitive Data) for more information.



## Does CSC provide Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?

Yes, a second verification step (MFA) is enabled on SD Desktop and SD Connect. For specific guidance regarding the MFA activation on your CSC account, see the [Multi-factor Authentication paragraph](../../accounts/mfa.md).
