OneDrive FAQ

	REVISION IN PROGRESS: This article contains useful information, but is being revised to reflect recent updates. Direct questions to TLT (tlt@winona.edu).

This OneDrive FAQ answers common questions about Microsoft OneDrive, WSU's file storage, management, and sharing solution.

Is Microsoft OneDrive better than Google Drive?

Yes. As a student or employee at WSU, the value of OneDrive far exceeds that of any alternative, consumer-level cloud storage solution (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox). It is the only enterprise-level, licensed solution supported by WSU and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. It's fully integrated into Microsoft 365, our productivity and collaboration toolset. It's more secure, more eliable, and not ad-supported. You can also share your OneDrive files with people outside the system.

Can I access my OneDrive files if I am not online?

Yes. Using OneDrive Sync, you can replicate OneDrive files on your local laptop or desktop. Work on your local copy when offline and changes will synchronize with the OneDrive copy when you reconnect.

Do I have to sync my OneDrive files?

No. OneDrive is a standalone cloud storage solution. You can access your OneDrive through any web browser on any device connected to the Internet. The optional OneDrive sync app app can be installed on your laptop or desktop. It creates copies of your OneDrive files on your local computer's hard drive and keeps the two copies in synch. It's handy when you are working offline.

Is OneDrive reliable?

Yes. Service uptime for the most recent quarter was 99.97%. Microsoft's financially backed customer service level agreement sets 99.9% as the uptime threshold. If WSU experiences monthly uptime less than 99.9%, Microsoft compensates us through service credits.

Does Microsoft own the files I store in OneDrive?

No. Microsoft asserts no rights to the content you create and/or manage using their products, as specified in their Microsoft Services Agreement. Also see their data protection and privacy site.

Can anyone else access my OneDrive files?

In today's digital world, it's safe to assume that any file you transmit and/or store on the Internet is accessible by someone else. That doesn't mean you shouldn't use the service; you just need to behave accordingly.By default, any file you upload to your OneDrive cannot be accessed by any other user unless you decide to share it. Microsoft also has network administrators who can access your files if required (e.g., if subpoenaed), just as WSU network administrators can access your files stored on our campus network. According to Microsoft, they do not mine your data for advertising purposes and they only use it to help provide the service. For example, if you are having trouble with your OneDrive for Business, a network administrator might look at your files and usage log to determine when you last uploaded a file or whether you uploaded a file infected with a virus. If you have any questions or concerns about the privacy of your data in OneDrive for Business, contact our ITS Security Officer, Toby Schmidt (tschmidt@winona.edu).

What happens to my OneDrive files when I leave WSU?

Except for emeriti faculty, you retain access to your OneDrive as long as you have a working Minnesota State StarID. For security purposes, the contents of employees' OneDrives are deleted shortly after their separation. Emeriti faculty retain a campus Microsoft 365 license, giving them access to campus email and OneDrive.

Is there a connection between OneDrive and SharePoint?

Yes. Those who use SharePoint services will appreciate knowing that your OneDrive is just a large document library in a SharePoint site. If you poke around in your OneDrive, you will find SharePoint features and functions you may recognize. We recommend that you avoid poking around for the time being. We wish Microsoft hadn't exposed so many of your document library's SharePoint menus and settings because you can mess things up if you don't know how to use them properly. If you have no idea what all this means, that's fine. You do not need expert knowledge of SharePoint to use your OneDrive.

Can I use OneDrive on my phone?

Yes. More soon.

How much can I store in my OneDrive

Your OneDrive can store up to 1 TB of data. Note that this is greater than the storage capacity of your WSU laptop.

External links

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