OneDrive: where your files live

Part A: Check that OneDrive is signed in

1. Look at the bottom-right corner of your screen

   Next to the clock, look for a small cloud icon. If you do not see it, click the small up arrow ^ to show hidden icons.

2. Read the cloud icon

   A blue cloud means OneDrive is signed in and working. A gray cloud or a cloud with a line through it means it is not signed in yet. A red X means something needs attention.

3. If the cloud is gray, sign in

   Click the gray cloud, then click Sign in. Type your work email, click Sign in, type your password, and approve on your phone if asked.

4. Click Next through the setup screens

   OneDrive asks where to keep your folder. Leave it as suggested and click Next. If it offers to back up your Desktop, Documents and Pictures, click Start backup (recommended). Keep clicking Next until you see Open my OneDrive folder.

Part B: Find your OneDrive files in File Explorer

1. Open File Explorer

   Click the yellow folder icon on the taskbar. Or press the Windows key and E at the same time.

2. Find OneDrive in the left column

   In the list on the left, look for a blue cloud named OneDrive - Your Company Name. Click it once.

3. Understand the little icons next to each file

   • Green circle with a check: saved to the cloud and also on this computer.
   • Blue cloud outline: saved in the cloud only. It downloads when you open it (you need internet).
   • Blue circling arrows: uploading or downloading right now. Wait a moment.
   • Red circle with an X: something went wrong. Put in a ticket and we will fix it.

4. Save a new file into OneDrive

   In Word, Excel or any app, click File then Save As. In the left column choose OneDrive - Your Company Name, type a name for the file, and click Save.

   Tip Word and Excel save your changes automatically when the file is in OneDrive. Look for AutoSave: On in the top-left corner.

5. Move an old file into OneDrive

   Drag the file from wherever it is (for example the Desktop) and drop it onto OneDrive - Your Company Name in the left column of File Explorer.

Part C: Get to your files from anywhere

1. Open OneDrive in a web browser

   Go to office.com, sign in, and click the OneDrive icon (a blue cloud) on the left. All your files are there, on any computer.

2. Share a file with a coworker

   In File Explorer, right-click the file, click Share (the OneDrive one, with a blue cloud), type your coworker's name, and click Send. They get an email with a link.