How to: Move Your Data to OneDrive

Overview

This guide explains how to move your files and folders from your local computer or another storage location into OneDrive, ensuring they are backed up and accessible from any device.

Method 1: Using the OneDrive Sync App (Recommended)

1. Ensure OneDrive is Installed:
   • Windows 10/11 and macOS usually have OneDrive pre-installed.
   • If not, download it from Microsoft OneDrive.
2. Sign In:
   • Open the OneDrive app.
   • Enter your GVSU email address ([yourusername]@gvsu.edu) and click Sign in.
   • Enter your GVSU network password when prompted.
   • If asked to choose an account type, select "Work or School".
3. Find Your OneDrive Folder:
   • On Windows: Open File Explorer and select OneDrive – Grand Valley State University.
   • On Mac: Open Finder and select the OneDrive folder.
4. Move Files: Copy or drag and drop your files into the OneDrive folder.
5. Sync Progress: The app will sync your files automatically in the background. You can check the sync status by clicking the OneDrive icon in the system tray in the bottom-right corner of the taskbar (Windows) or menu bar in the upper-right corner near the time (Mac).

Method 2: Drag and Drop via Web Browser

1. Open OneDrive: Go to onedrive.live.com and sign in with your GVSU email and password.
2. Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac): Locate the files you want to upload.
3. Drag and Drop: Click and drag your files or folders from File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac) into the OneDrive webpage.
4. Wait for Upload: A progress bar will show the upload status. Once complete, your files are in OneDrive.

Method 3: Using "Save As" in Microsoft Office Apps

1. Open the document in Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.
2. Click File > Save As.
3. Select OneDrive – Grand Valley State University as the save location.
4. Click Save. Your file is now stored in OneDrive.

Verifying Your Files Are in OneDrive

• Open onedrive.live.com and sign in with your GVSU email and password.
• Check if your files appear in the correct location.
• If using the OneDrive sync app, look for a green checkmark next to files (indicating successful sync).

Troubleshooting

• Files Not Syncing? Restart the OneDrive app or check your internet connection.
• Storage Full? Delete unnecessary files or reach out to IT for assistance on data management.
• Upload Errors? Ensure filenames don’t contain special characters like # % & * ? : / \.

For further assistance, contact the IT Service Desk at 616-331-2101 or it@gvsu.edu.