# Data Regions

## Data regions and why they matter

Data regions refer to the physical locations where your organization’s data, such as files and database entries, is stored and processed. Choosing a data region can be important for meeting legal and regulatory requirements, optimizing performance, and ensuring your data is stored securely.

When setting up your Timebook Workplace, you can choose where your data will be hosted—for example, in the United States or the European Union. This choice ensures compliance with specific laws and regulations, like the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) in the EU.

### Reasons to choose a data region

1. **Compliance with regulations**\
   Different countries and regions have specific rules about where data can be stored and processed. For instance:
   * The [**GDPR**](https://gdpr-info.eu/) requires personal data of EU residents to be stored in the EU or countries with equivalent data protection standards.
   * Certain industries in the US, like healthcare, have strict guidelines ([**HIPAA**](https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/index.html), for example) for where sensitive data must reside.
2. **Performance optimization**\
   Hosting your data closer to your users reduces latency, ensuring faster access and a better user experience.
3. **Privacy and security**\
   Some organizations or users prefer their data to be hosted in regions with specific privacy protections.

### Selecting a data region

When you set up your Workplace in Timebook, you’ll see these options:

* **United States**\
  Ideal for organizations with a majority of users in the US or operating under US-specific laws.
* **European Union**\
  A great choice for companies serving EU customers or needing to comply with GDPR.

{% hint style="danger" %}
Once you select a data region in Timebook, it **cannot be changed** later.

Be sure to review your organization’s legal and operational requirements before making your choice.
{% endhint %}

***

## Need help?

If you’re unsure which data region to choose or need assistance understanding the regulations, consult your legal or IT team. Alternatively, explore these helpful resources:

* [InCountry’s overview of data residency laws](https://incountry.com/blog/data-residency-laws-by-country-overview/)
* [Persona's guide to data residency](https://withpersona.com/blog/data-residency-laws-international-guide)

Choosing the right data region ensures your organization stays compliant, secure, and optimized for performance!


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