Here are some common FAQs to help you get started and familiarize yourself with OneDrive.
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How do I access OneDrive?
You can access OneDrive in the following ways:
- Application launcher on your Mason Office 365 account (https://outlook.office365.com/owa/gmu.edu) via supported browsers
- File Explorer in Windows 10
- OneDrive sync app
- New Teams client
When should I use OneDrive?
OneDrive for Business is your personal cloud storage. OneDrive uses Office 365 to store Mason-related files in the cloud, making it easy to access your files and collaborate from anywhere and from multiple devices.
How do I check my storage usage in OneDrive?
- Log in to your email account with the browser of your choice
- Click on the Office 365 app button in the upper left corner
- Select the OneDrive icon
- Click the gear icon
- Navigate to OneDrive Settings
- Select More Settings and choose Storage Metrics
Can I make an MS Teams space the way I used to?
The “Create or Join a Team” button in MS Teams no longer works for creating Teams. You will need to use the MyHub application. For more details on how to make Teams, see Getting Started: Creating a Workspace with MyHub. Upon creation of workspaces in MyHub, the owners and contacts are made (or suggested) to be the same people.
What is the difference between OneDrive and OneDrive for Business?
OneDrive for Business is part of Mason's agreement with Microsoft and is covered by university policy. OneDrive is Microsoft's consumer version and is used for personal use and is not connected with your Mason Microsoft 365 account or supported by ITS.
What browsers are supported with OneDrive?
Office 365 services are designed to work with the latest browsers and versions of Office.
What is Sync for OneDrive?
With OneDrive, you can sync files between your computer and the cloud, so you can access your files from anywhere. If you add, change, or delete a file or folder in your OneDrive folder, the file or folder is added, changed, or deleted on the OneDrive website and vice versa.
What happens if I delete a OneDrive file? Can it be recovered?
If you delete a file stored in OneDrive for Business, it will be in your OneDrive for business recycle bin for 93 days. Within that period, you can recover the file or folder.
Note: ITS and Microsoft cannot recover OneDrive for Business files.
Can I backup my entire computer system to OneDrive?
No. OneDrive should NOT be used to back up your computer.
Can I put sensitive data on OneDrive?
Restricted data is allowed on Mason's OneDrive but not Highly Sensitive Data (HSD). Review Data Classification and Storage Requirements for guidance on storage of sensitive data. You should also review retention guidelines and university policies for Highly Sensitive Data and Records Management Policies when working with sensitive data.
How do I disable OneDrive prompts when working with email?
See How to Disable OneDrive Prompts When Working with Email for instructions.
Can I move OneDrive data from my Mason Office 365 account to an alternative Office 365 account?
To move data, follow Microsoft instructions on how to move your school files when you graduate. Review retention guidelines and university policies for Highly Sensitive Data and Records Management Policies when determining what data can be moved.
What happens to my OneDrive files when I leave Mason?
When you stop taking classes or working for Mason, you will lose access to your OneDrive files.
Note: It is your responsibility to remove any files you'd like to retain before you leave.
How do I share a OneDrive file or folder?
To share a file or folder with an Office 365 user, see Share OneDrive files and folders.
Is there a file size limit for OneDrive?
Depending on the web browser you use, you can upload files up to 10 GB in size.
If I already use another cloud storage tool, should I still use OneDrive?
OneDrive for Business is the only personal cloud storage service that is endorsed by Mason.
Last modified: April 29, 2025