How to Sync OneDrive to Your Device

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Syncing OneDrive allows you to access your files directly from your computer, even offline. Any changes you make are automatically updated across all devices when you reconnect to the internet.

This guide covers syncing on Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks.


Windows 10/11

Step 1: Open OneDrive

  • OneDrive is built in to Windows.

  • Search for OneDrive in the Start menu.

Step 2: Sign In

  1. Open the OneDrive app.

  2. Sign in using your school email and password. 

Step 3: Choose Folders to Sync

  1. Select the folders you want to sync to your device.

    • You can sync all files or choose specific folders.

  2. Click Next.

Step 4: Access Your Files

  • Synced files appear in File Explorer under “YourName – University of Tennessee.”

Step 5: Verify Sync

  • Look for the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar.

    • Blue cloud icon: Files are syncing.

    • Green checkmark: Files are up to date.

    • Red X: There’s a problem with syncing.


macOS

Step 1: Install OneDrive

Step 2: Sign In

  1. Open the OneDrive app.

  2. Sign in using your school email and password. 

Step 3: Choose Folders to Sync

  1. Select the folders you want to sync.

  2. Click Next.

Step 4: Access Your Files

  • Synced files appear in Finder under “YourName – University of Tennessee.”

Step 5: Verify Sync

  • Look for the OneDrive cloud icon in your menu bar.

    • Blue cloud icon: Files are syncing.

    • Green checkmark: Files are up to date.

    • Red X: There’s a problem with syncing.


Chromebooks (ChromeOS)

Step 1: Open the Files App

  • Open the Files app from the Chromebook launcher.

Step 2: Add OneDrive

  1. In the Files app, click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.

  2. Select Add new service → Install new service.

  3. From the list, choose OneDrive.

Step 3: Sign In

  • Sign in using your school email and password. 

Step 4: Access Your Files

  • Your OneDrive will now appear in the left sidebar of the Files app, just like Google Drive.


Tips for All Devices

  • To pause or resume syncing: click the OneDrive icon and select Pause syncing or Resume syncing.

  • You can always access files from any device via OneDrive on the web.

Details

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Article ID: 17426
Created
Tue 9/2/25 9:33 AM
Modified
Tue 9/2/25 9:59 AM