How to Configure OneDrive to Sync/Backup Files
Introduction
OneDrive is the Microsoft cloud service that connects you to all your files. It lets you store and protect your files, share them with others, and get to them from anywhere on all your devices through OneDrive cloud storage.
One of OneDrive's most powerful features is its ability to automatically backup files on your computer. This can be particularly helpful in the event of catastrophic failure on the computer which would normally result in data loss. With OneDrive, data loss can be avoided as long as the data is stored within one of its supported directories and as long as the service is not interrupted.
Note: By default, OneDrive is set to sync files located only within the following locations on the user's profile: Desktop, Documents, and Pictures. As long as your files are located in one of these places, then they are backed up and available through any other device you have OneDrive accessible on.
OneDrive does not automatically back up files on other locations. OneDrive can not backup some particular files due to restrictions and conflicts. See Microsoft's OneDrive sync restrictions for further details.
Instructions
1.) Open the OneDrive App (should look like a blue or black cloud). This can be found on the lower-right side of the taskbar in Windows or on the upper-right side of the menu bar on Apple systems.
Windows:
Mac:
If OneDrive prompts you to login, use your NetID@colostate.edu and NetID password for the account credentials. If this is your first time using OneDrive, you will be walked through a brief tutorial.
1A.) Once opened, if you see a green checkmark and the "Your files are synced" message, then you can confirm that OneDrive is syncing your files. That said, I do recommend following through the rest of the instructions to confirm that OneDrive is syncing the recommended folders.
2.) Select the Settings Cog and then select the Settings selection which will the open the OneDrive settings.
3.) Locate and open the Manage backup selection from within the settings. This will open a new window with your available folders for backup. Select the switches for the folders you wish to have backed up. We recommend having all of them selected.
Make sure to Save Changes once finished with your selections. At this point you should be all set. Feel free to close out of the application as it will automatically run in the background.
It is a good idea to check OneDrive from time to time to confirm that there are no issues with any particular files. Invalid file/folder names, OneNote Notebooks, and special characters are some of the common issues with OneDrive syncing. See Microsoft's OneDrive sync restrictions for further details.