How To: Request a File using Microsoft OneDrive

Learn how to use the Request Files feature in OneDrive to securely collect documents from others. This feature allows you to send a secure upload link to internal or external users, allowing them to upload files directly to a specific folder in your OneDrive without seeing the folder's other contents.

Setting Up a File Request

To request files, you must first identify or create a folder in your OneDrive where the files will be stored.

  1. Sign in to your OneDrive via the web browser.
  2. Select the folder you want the files to go into (or create a new one). Note: Do not open the folder; simply select it by clicking the circle next to the folder name.
  3. Select Request files from the toolbar at the top of the screen.
  4. In the "What files are you requesting?" window, enter a descriptive name (e.g., "Project Delta Invoices") and click Next.
  5. Share the Link: You can copy the link to paste into an email/Teams message, or enter email addresses to send the request directly from OneDrive.
  6. Click Done.

The Uploader's Experience

It is helpful to know what your recipients will see when they click your link:

  • Recipients click Select files to choose documents from their device.
  • If they are not signed into a Microsoft account, they will be asked to enter their First and Last Name so you can identify who sent the file.
  • Uploaded files are automatically renamed to include the uploader's name (e.g., JohnDoe_Invoices.pdf).
Privacy Note: Uploaders can only upload files. They cannot see, edit, or delete any other files within your folder, even the ones they just uploaded.

Security & Privacy Guidelines

Category Policy / Requirement
External Access This feature works for anyone with the link, including individuals outside the organization, without requiring them to sign in.
File Overwrites If a new file is uploaded with the exact same name as an existing one, OneDrive will append a number to the new file (e.g., Invoices(1).pdf). No data is overwritten.
Data Protection Using Request Files is safer than email attachments for sensitive data, as the files go directly into our encrypted cloud environment.
Stopping Requests: Once you have received all necessary files, you should disable the link. To do this, select the folder, go to Manage Access, and delete the "Request Files" link.

 

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