As someone who uses Microsoft OneDrive, I like the way Windows 11 integrates the service in ways you won’t find in Windows 10

In the digital age, cloud storage services have become an integral part of our daily lives. Microsoft OneDrive is one such service that has gained popularity for its seamless integration with Windows operating systems. With the release of Windows 11, Microsoft has taken this integration to a whole new level, making it easier than ever to access and manage your OneDrive files. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways Windows 11 enhances the OneDrive experience and how you can take full advantage of it.

Upgrading to Windows 11

Before we dive into the features of OneDrive in Windows 11, it’s essential to ensure that you’re running the latest version of the operating system. Most of the OneDrive benefits are available only in the 22H2 update to Windows 11. If you’re not already running the latest flavor of Windows 11, head to Settings > Windows Update and allow the 22H2 update to install. To double-check your version, go to Settings > System > About. The entry for Version in the Windows specifications section will tell you which version is installed.

Setting OneDrive as the Default Startup Location

With the 22H2 update, you can change the default startup location in File Explorer so that you see your OneDrive folders right off the bat. Open File Explorer, click the ellipsis icon on the toolbar, and select Options. Click the dropdown menu for Open File Explorer to and change it to your OneDrive folder. The next time you launch File Explorer, you’ll be taken to your local OneDrive storage.

Managing OneDrive Storage

Managing your OneDrive storage has never been easier. You can access the parent folder for your OneDrive storage directly from File Explorer. Click the parent folder for your OneDrive storage. On the right end of the toolbar, click the down arrow next to the cloud icon. The dropdown window reveals the status of your synced files and how much space your files are taking up on OneDrive.

Viewing Your Latest Synced Files

You can easily keep track of your latest synced files. The icons accessible at this window will take you to your OneDrive storage and settings. Click the entry for Your files are synced at the top, and you’ll see a list of the latest synced files.

Managing Storage Online

Click the button for Manage storage, and you’re taken to your online OneDrive storage screen where you’re able to review your current plan, empty the OneDrive Recycle bin to free up space, and add more storage if necessary.

Accessing the Recycle Bin

In case you need to retrieve deleted files, click the trash can icon in the OneDrive window. That takes you to the online OneDrive Recycle bin where you can restore any deleted files that you need, permanently delete any files you won’t ever need again, or empty the entire bin to recover space.

Viewing OneDrive Files Online

Return to the OneDrive dropdown window in File Explorer and click the View online icon (the one that looks like a globe). You’re taken to your OneDrive Files window where you’re able to view and access all your folders and files.

Modifying OneDrive Settings

The OneDrive settings have received a facelift with the latest Windows 11 update. Instead of the older and clunkier Settings window with the tabs at the top, the new OneDrive settings take on the same look and feel as the general Windows Settings app. The settings for OneDrive are organized into four categories: Sync and backup, Account, Notifications, and About.

Sync and Backup

Under Sync and backup are the options for backing up important folders and saving photos and screenshots. Here, you can also set certain preferences and tap into advanced settings to collaborate on Microsoft Office files and choose whether your OneDrive files are saved to your PC or stored only in the cloud and downloaded when you access them.

Account

Under Account, you can choose the folders you want to back up and sync and set how long to wait until the personal vault automatically locks after you’ve stopped using it.

Notifications

Under Notifications, enable or disable notifications for specific OneDrive actions, such as when syncing is paused, when other people edit shared files, and when a large number of files are deleted in the cloud.

About

And under About is an option to get OneDrive insider previews if you want to check out new features before they become mainstream.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Windows 11 has revolutionized the way you can interact with Microsoft OneDrive. The enhanced integration and features make it an even more powerful tool for managing your files and ensuring they are securely stored in the cloud.

FAQs

1. Can I use OneDrive in Windows 10 the same way as in Windows 11? No, the advanced OneDrive integration features discussed in this article are specific to Windows 11, particularly the 22H2 update.
2. Is OneDrive storage free with Windows 11? OneDrive offers a certain amount of free storage, but additional space may require a subscription.
3. How do I access OneDrive on my mobile device? You can download the OneDrive app from your device’s app store and log in with your Microsoft account.
4. Can I use OneDrive to back up my entire PC? Yes, you can use OneDrive to back up important folders and files on your PC.
5. What happens to my files if I uninstall OneDrive from Windows 11? Your files will remain in OneDrive unless you choose to remove them. Uninstalling OneDrive from your PC does not delete your stored data.