How To: Use OneDrive Files Offline

Learn how to keep OneDrive files on your computer or phone so you can work on them without internet, like on a plane, and how to free up space afterward.

What the icons mean

Icon
Means
Cloud
Online only. Needs internet to open, and takes up no space.
Green check (outline)
Downloaded because you opened it. Works offline.
Green check (solid)
Always kept on this device. Works offline.

Keep files on your computer

1

Find the file or folder

Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac) and go to OneDrive - North Central University.

2

Keep it

Right-click the file or folder and select Always keep on this device.

3

Free up space later

Right-click and select Free up space. The file stays in OneDrive, just not on your computer.

Keep files on your phone

In the OneDrive app, tap More (…) next to a file and turn on Make available offline.

Changes you make offline sync back to OneDrive the next time you connect.

Get help

Still need help? Submit a request through Microsoft Teams, call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170, or visit Miller Hall 226.