If your organization has a Microsoft 365 subscription, chances are that you also have access to OneDrive – Microsoft’s cloud-based online storage solution. Microsoft OneDrive allows users to keep their created files stored both on their computer and synched with the cloud.
Any number of devices, such as laptops, phones, and tablets can be synched with OneDrive and files can be made available from anywhere.
Did You Know? If you do not have Microsoft 365, you can also get a free OneDrive account with up to 5GB of storage.
Fast Facts About OneDrive
- OneDrive is a cloud storage solution typically provided through a subscription to Microsoft 365.
- OneDrive requires a user sign in on the desktop app to begin syncing files. Microsoft account credentials are needed for sign on.
- OneDrive allows users to backup, sync, or share files which have been stored on the cloud service through an associated Microsoft account.
- OneDrive allows users to back up specific locations from computer to the cloud. This allows users to automatically keep files stored on the Desktop or in the Documents or Photos folder. OneDrive provides a reliable automatic backup of critical files.
In Windows 10, OneDrive has been incorporated into the operating system, so is easily configured. However, OneDrive will work in a similar manner even if a different operating system (such as an older version of Windows or Mac) is in use.
Use of OneDrive
In order to install OneDrive for the first time, check to see if you already have it installed. If not, download and sign in. After you sign in to your OneDrive account, you’ll be permitted to configure the service based on your own personal requirements.
In its default setting, OneDrive can maintain the files on your computer in sync with the cloud. OneDrive can also keep a continuously synced backup of the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders.
With OneDrive, it is easy to share individual files or entire folders with other individuals. People may share files directly, or share a link to shared files. Sharing can be accomplished by using the OneDrive “Share” button.
If an individual wants to remove a file or document from OneDrive, it must be done with caution. Although possible, the process will remove the file across all shared devices – not just the device you are using at the time. So you will want to make sure that you definitely no longer need the file. There is an exception you’ll be glad to know about – if you use OneDrive to back up photos on your phone, deleting OneDrive copies of your photos will not delete the pictures stored on your phone
In order to pause syncing temporarily or permanently stop OneDrive from syncing a particular folder on your computer, follow these simple steps. Click the OneDrive icon , navigate to Help & Settings”, and click “Pause syncing.” You can then choose to pause syncing for 2, 8, or 24 hours. When the time is up, syncing will automatically resume.
Do you need more information on Microsoft OneDrive? Call the IT experts at Alliance IT. Our deep bench of network and security professionals are here to help with any IT questions you may have, or to handle that IT project you don’t have time to accomplish. If you are a small to medium sized business in the Sarasota area, call Alliance IT for a consultation today.
