Microsoft has Announced that OneDrive cloud storage will have an offline mode, bringing it more in line with other cloud-based services that have offered the option for years, such as Google Drive.
Offline mode will allow users to access certain files on OneDrive in their chosen browser, regardless of internet connectivity, and is rolling out globally to both work and school OneDrive users. Users will need to designate which files and folders can be accessed offline. Users will also be able to create online-only local files and folders directly from OneDrive for the web, rather than having to use File Explorer on Windows or Finder on Mac.
Microsoft has stated that OneDrive offline will allow users to view their Home, My Files, Shared, Favorites, People, and Meeting Views. Offline mode also allows you to view selected folders, files, and metadata, as well as use the My Files view to rename, sort, move, and copy files. OneDrive will supposedly sync all of this information when the device reconnects to the Internet.
What else does it offer offline and how do I activate it?
According to Microsoft, offline mode uses your local storage to store certain file information, such as file names, size, author, last access date, and more. This is possible through the OneDrive sync app which stores a cache of your file metadata locally. Microsoft claims that the main advantage of this is that it significantly improves OneDrive loading times in your browser and speeds up the viewing of files in your browser and in the OneDrive app in both Microsoft Teams and Outlook.
To start using offline mode, you’ll need to have a Windows or Mac PC running the most up-to-date version of the OneDrive sync app. The first step will be to sign in to OneDrive in Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, which will then trigger a one-time automatic offline mode setup. Microsoft has released a support article with more information, including current limitations and how to turn off offline mode.
OneDrive is a great service, but it struggles to compete with the options available from other providers. However, this new addition will help put OneDrive on par with Google Drive and Apple’s iCloud. Obviously, when moving files online, it’s always a good idea to keep your security settings up to date and protect yourself as much as possible. Here’s our pick for the best VPN services list of 2024, as well as our best antivirus software to ensure your computer is as safe as possible.
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