OneDrive help centre

OneDrive is a cloud storage service that allows you to store your files securely in one place and then access them virtually anywhere. Your OneDrive is automatically provisioned with your Microsoft 365 account.

Although OneDrive supports most common file types, it may not support file types for special software. Files that include some special characters in the name can also cause issues. You can see a full list of invalid characters on Microsoft Support.

If you're having trouble uploading something to your OneDrive, please contact the Computer Help Desk.

Using OneDrive at UVic

While Microsoft 365 services like OneDrive are easy to integrate into your daily life, it's important to remember they're primarily for teaching, learning, and work related to UVic. Some personal use is acceptable if it doesn't disrupt UVic use. Your use of OneDrive is subject to UVic's Microsoft 365 terms of service.

OneDrive is built on the Microsoft 365 hyper-scale, enterprise-grade cloud, which has advanced security and compliance capabilities. It's fine to use for most UVic related work, but if you work with sensitive data there may better solutions like departmental file storage.

You can learn more about using Microsoft 365 services for confidential UVic work on our privacy and security page.

Getting started with OneDrive

OneDrive is an easy way to share and collaborate with others. Whether you're working on a group project or sharing information with colleagues, OneDrive is a great alternative to sending email attachments or using unsupported sharing services. Here's some support information from Microsoft to get you started:

• OneDrive quick start guide
• Share OneDrive files and folders
• See files you shared in OneDrive
• See files shared with you in OneDrive
• Stop sharing OneDrive (personal) files or folders, or change permissions
• Use @mention in comments to tag someone for feedback

Syncing your OneDrive

You can set up OneDrive to sync to your computer so you can always access a copy of your data. This is really handy if your internet connection isn't always stable or you're regularly moving between locations as you work.

• Sync files with OneDrive in Windows
• Sync files with OneDrive on Mac OS X
• OneDrive Client for Linux

Important: To avoid losing data due to failed syncing, please follow all guidelines from Microsoft on how to properly name files and identify sync problems:

• Restrictions and limitations in OneDrive and SharePoint
• How to Identify and Fix OneDrive sync problems

Backing up your OneDrive

It's always a good idea to have backups of your important files. You can set up your computer(s) to sync to OneDrive so you can always access a copy of your data. This is important in case you get locked out of your computer or your computer dies. Plus it's handy to have your files accessible from any computer or mobile device that's signed into OneDrive.

Migrating OneDrive data when you leave UVic

We recommend you back up your OneDrive on a personal device before you leave UVic. You can do that by syncing your OneDrive folder onto your computer. Make sure you have enough hard drive space to fit everything you need!

UVic employees cannot migrate any business or work-related files without authorization from your supervisor.

Support for OneDrive

If you need any help with accessing OneDrive or have questions about support resources, please contact the Computer Help Desk.