Questions
- How do I upload documents to OneDrive?
- How do I add files to OneDrive from a web browser?
- How do I use the OneDrive sync client on a Mac or Windows computer?
- What is the largest file I can upload to OneDrive?
- How do I install the OneDrive sync client?
- How do I back up my Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders to OneDrive?
- Why won't some of my files upload to OneDrive?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using OneDrive with a Bowdoin account. Documents can be added to OneDrive in several ways. The two most common methods are uploading files from a web browser and using the OneDrive sync client. Both methods have their advantages and can be used interchangeably as needed.
Resolution
Upload through a web browser
To upload a document or folder through a web browser, log in to portal.office.com and click OneDrive. Browse to the folder where the files should be added, then drag and drop the files from the computer into the browser window. The items begin to upload, and the page refreshes once they have been added. When adding files to OneDrive through a web browser, drag and drop files up to 10 GB in size.
Note: Wait until the page refreshes before navigating away. Navigating away too soon can leave files uploaded incompletely or incorrectly. If the page never refreshes, there could be an error in the upload; check for the documents by opening OneDrive in a different web browser. Do not leave a public or shared computer without confirming the files uploaded, because otherwise the files may not be recoverable.
Use the sync client
Install the OneDrive sync client for macOS or Windows to keep a local folder on the computer in sync with OneDrive content. The sync client allows files to be managed on the computer while offline; once the computer reconnects to the internet, the sync client automatically uploads the changed files and downloads any files that were added through the web portal. When using the sync client, add files up to 15 GB in size.
Install the OneDrive sync client for Mac
OneDrive is installed automatically on all Bowdoin-issued Macs. If it is missing, download OneDrive for Mac from the Self Service app. Once downloaded, follow the steps to log in to OneDrive and configure the local sync folder. By default, the sync folder is named OneDrive - Bowdoin College. All files in this folder are synced to OneDrive automatically.
Install the OneDrive sync client for Windows
OneDrive should already be installed on Bowdoin-issued Windows 11 computers. Contact the Service Desk if OneDrive is not installed on a Bowdoin computer.
Note: Folder protection can back up important folders on a PC (the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders) to OneDrive. See the Microsoft article in the Additional Resources section for details.
Limitations when using the sync client
There are some limitations when adding files to OneDrive. When uploading through a browser, an error message explains what went wrong. When using a sync client, an error message appears, or the file or folder that should be synced does not show a green check. For a complete list of limitations, see the Microsoft article in the Additional Resources section.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources