Introduction

This article describes how to access and configure Microsoft’s OneDrive for Business to sync files and folders between the cloud and your local device (desktop, laptop, etc.).

Contents

• How OneDrive File Syncing Works
• Initial Setup of the OneDrive Sync Client
• Changing Synced Folders
• Additional Information

Instructions

How OneDrive File Syncing Works

OneDrive allows you to sync files and folders between your local device and the cloud for accessibility from any location (workstation, mobile device, Microsoft 365 website, etc.). If any files are added, edited, and/or deleted in your locally stored OneDrive folder, then that change will be reflected in OneDrive Online; the opposite direction is also true. You may also access your synced files in the Windows File Explorer when offline. Once your device connects to a network, any changes made by you or any others that have access to the file will be synced automatically.

Initial Setup of the OneDrive Sync Client

The section applies to the use case of adding a new Microsoft 365 account during the initial setup of the OneDrive Sync Client. It assumes you have not yet signed into OneDrive for Business on the device.

1. Click Start on the Windows taskbar.

   

2. In the Search text box, type: OneDrive.
3. Click the OneDrive app. If you are already signed in, this will directly open your local OneDrive folder in File Explorer.
4. In the Set up OneDrive window that appears, enter your VT Username (PID) and passphrase.
5. When the Your OneDrive folder screen appears, you will be able to change the location of the OneDrive folder. To do this, click Change location and select your desired location.

   

6. Click Next.
7. On the next screen, you will be given general information about OneDrive file sharing and what different icons mean. Click Next until the setup has been completed. There are other personalized settings not shown in these instructions that may appear such as "Get the mobile app". You may click Later if you do not want to complete that section of the setup instructions.
8. On the final screen that says, "Your OneDrive is ready for you", click Open my OneDrive folder to view or manage the OneDrive files and folders.

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Changing Synced Folders

After adding your desired account, you may change which folders sync on your computer.

1. On your desktop, in the taskbar, click the up arrow to view more icons.

   

2. Click the blue OneDrive cloud icon.

   

3. In the upper-right, click the Gear.
   

   

4. In the window that appears, click Settings.

   

5. In the window, click the Account tab.
6. Click Choose folders.
7. Select the folder you want to sync.
8. Click OK.

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Additional Information

• Disabling Local Caching of Documents in OneDrive
• Using SharePoint Online for a Common Research Use Case
• File Sharing with OneDrive for Business