Microsoft OneDrive: Back up your files

Backup OneDrive

Overview

Every computer has standard folders, such as Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, that may not be included in your OneDrive backup. Turning on OneDrive backup protects these folders and makes them available on any computer you sign in to, including a new or replacement computer.

Requirements

The OneDrive app, which comes pre-installed on Villanova-issued computers. If it is missing, see Microsoft's guide to installing and setting up OneDrive.

Instructions

OneDrive backs up only the folders you turn on below, plus anything saved in your OneDrive folder. Files saved anywhere else, such as your Downloads folder or the root of your C: drive, are not backed up, so move them into a backed-up folder.

OneDrive for Windows

Select the OneDrive cloud icon in the notification area at the bottom right of your screen. If you do not see it, search for OneDrive in the Windows search bar and open it.
If you are not already signed in, select Sign in and sign in with your Villanova account.
Select the Help & Settings (gear) icon, then select Settings.
Go to the Sync and backup tab.
Select Manage backup.
Turn on Documents, Pictures, and Desktop, then select Save changes. OneDrive begins backing up these folders.
Wait until OneDrive shows that your files are up to date.

For more detail, see Microsoft's article Back up your folders with OneDrive.

OneDrive for Mac

Select the OneDrive cloud icon in the menu bar at the top of your screen. If you do not see it, press Command (⌘) + Space to open Spotlight Search, type OneDrive, and open the app.
If you are not already signed in, select Sign In and sign in with your Villanova account (for example, wildcat17@villanova.edu).
Select Next through the setup prompts. Do not change the default OneDrive folder location, and allow OneDrive to start syncing when prompted.
When asked to set up OneDrive mobile, select Not Now.
Select Open my OneDrive folder, or close the setup window.
Select the OneDrive cloud icon, select the Help & Settings (gear) icon, then select Settings.
Go to the Sync and backup tab and select Manage backup.
Turn on Desktop and Documents, then select Save changes.
Move any other files you want to keep into the OneDrive folder in Finder.
Wait until OneDrive shows that your files are up to date.