Store and share documents with Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive gives you a place to store, share and sync your files. OneDrive accounts are automatically available with your Essex Office365 account.
All staff and students are entitled to download and install the latest version of Microsoft Office 365 on personal computers and mobile devices, for free.
Getting started
- Sign in to OneDrive online.
- Install OneDrive on your Windows computer or Mac computer.
- Download the OneDrive app for Android, iOS or Windows.
Key features
- Massive storage space – you have access to 1 Terabyte (1000 GB) of storage space on Microsoft OneDrive while studying with us.
- Access anywhere – your documents can be accessed from almost any internet-connected device with the OneDrive mobile app.
- Real time collaboration – share documents with your classmates or tutors, and co-author Office documents with others in real time.
- Peace of mind – your files are safe if your computer fails or if you lose your laptop or phone. When working on Office files, they will auto-save every few seconds so you don’t lose work by forgetting to save your file.
Using OneDrive
When you open OneDrive you will see a list of documents you have created. By default, you’re the only one who can see your files unless you choose to share them with a specific person or group.
Uploading files and folders
- Select Upload.
Note: In Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, select Upload > Files.
- Select the file or files you want to upload.
- Select Open.
Note: You can also upload files by opening File Explorer, selecting the files you want to upload, and dragging them to OneDrive.
Creating files and folders
Create a file in OneDrive
- Select New and choose the type of file you want.
- To rename the file, click the file name in the title bar, for example Document, and then type a name.
- All changes are automatically saved in the Office online apps, so when you go back to OneDrive, your new file is already saved.
Create a file in an Office desktop app
- Open a desktop app, like a Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.
- Select File > Save As.
- Select your OneDrive account.
- Type a name for the file and select Save.
Create folders
- Select New > Folder.
- Type a name for the folder and select Create.
- Select the files you want and drag them into the folder.
Syncing OneDrive files or folders
You can sync files between your computer and the cloud, so you can get to them from anywhere.
Note: If you’re on Windows 10, your computer already has the OneDrive sync app on it. If you’re on a Mac or an earlier version of Windows, go to onedrive.com/download and download the OneDrive app.
Sync OneDrive to your computer
- Select Start, type OneDrive, and then select OneDrive
- Sign in to OneDrive with the account you want to sync and finish setting up.
- Your OneDrive files will start syncing to your computer.
Work with your files in your file system
Once you're synced, you’ll see your files in File Explorer. On a Mac, your files will appear under OneDrive in the Mac Finder.
If you use more than one account, your personal files appear under OneDrive – Personal and your University files appear under OneDrive - University of Essex.
You can copy or move files from your computer to OneDrive right from your file system.
You can also click the OneDrive cloud icon in the Windows notification area to check status on your files. Click Settings to add an account or manage other sync settings.
Further support
You can find more in-depth information and training on OneDrive via Microsoft Support or LinkedIn Learning.
