OneDrive
OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage service. You can use it to securely store, access and share files. There are OneDrive apps for a variety of platforms, so you can access your work from multiple locations and devices. OneDrive is available on web browsers, Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad, and Android.
With the OneDrive sync app for Windows and Mac, you can sync and back up data from your computer to help prevent data loss.
Details
- Type
- Microsoft 365 app
- For
- Students & employees
- Cost
- Free
- Platform
- Web, Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad, Android
- Website
- OneDrive
- Download apps
- Windows and Mac, iPhone and iPad, Android
Alternatives
OneDrive is best used for files like coursework, projects, independent research and notes. SharePoint or network drives are better for departmental business and records.
If you’re working with a group and need to store content that belongs to a department or team rather than an individual, document libraries in Teams and SharePoint may work better for you.
Restrictions & limitations
In addition to the restrictions and limitations set by Microsoft, UVic has set the following restrictions:
Storage limit
- 100 GB per person
- 1 TB for employees with upgraded M365 licenses
External sharing
You can share files with specific people outside of UVic (“external users” or “guests”), but you can’t set sharing permissions to “Anyone”.
Privacy & information security
OneDrive is built on the same cloud infrastructure as Teams and SharePoint. It’s generally considered safe for UVic research, admin and personal data, as long as you use it responsibly.
If you're working with private, confidential or highly confidential business data and aren’t sure of the best way to store it:
- learn more about M365 Privacy and Security
- review the Annual Staff Training course
- ask your supervisor about your department’s policies and best practices
- contact the Privacy and Access to Information Office for more help
If you’re working with research data, Research Computing Services offers free consultations on security.
Resources
Getting started with OneDrive
- OneDrive quick start guide
- OneDrive help & learning
- OneDrive training
- Sync files with OneDrive in Windows
- Sync files with OneDrive in macOS
Troubleshooting
- Troubleshoot issues with OneDrive
- Restrictions, limitations, and troubleshooting tips
- Check your storage limit
Accessibility
Linux support
Microsoft doesn't provide an official OneDrive client for Linux. The OneDrive web app works under Linux. If you want a desktop sync client, we recommend the unofficial OneDrive for Linux client. We only provide best-effort support for it.
Get help now
Contact IT support to:
- get help with OneDrive
- report an outage or issue
For accessibility support, you can also contact the Microsoft Disability Answer Desk.