Install OneDrive on Windows

Owned by Dan Jakubiak
Last updated: Apr 17, 2023
3 min read

UConn faculty, staff, and students can install OneDrive on their Window computer for free by following this guide.

When you first set up OneDrive, you will be asked if you would like to back up your Documents, Desktop, and Pictures folders. These folders were created by Windows when you first setup your computer; OneDrive can back them up without moving them into the OneDrive folder. Just like your other OneDrive files, these files will now be protected from physical damage to your computer.

Signing into OneDrive for Windows

OneDrive is pre-installed on Windows 10 and 11 computers. If you do not have Windows 10 or do not see OneDrive on your computer, you can click here to download the OneDrive installer. Once the installer is opened, follow the instructions from Step 2 below.

  1. Click the OneDrive icon (cloud) in the bottom right of the Windows taskbar.
    Note the cloud icon may be gray or blue. If then icon is blue, you are likely already signed into OneDrive.

    1. If you do not see the OneDrive icon, select the Windows Search bar or the Windows icon in the bottom left and search for “OneDrive”.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions and use your UConn email address and NetID password to log in.

  3. When asked whether you would like to back up your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, ITS recommends that you accept this choice. See the purple “note” blurb at the top of this page.

  4. Next, we will tell OneDrive where to live on your computer. This is where your files will reside while you’re working on them. The default location is appropriate. Click Next.

  5. Click Next as you make your way through the OneDrive prompts. Each prompt will give you a little information about how OneDrive works.
    You do not need to install OneDrive on your mobile phone when asked. If you want to see your files on the go, you may install the phone app at any time.

  6. Once setup is complete you can find your files in the OneDrive section of File Explorer.
    Optional: To view the sync progress, click on the cloud icon in the taskbar at the bottom of your screen. Note that this initial sync will take a few minutes.

Adding a Second Account to OneDrive for Windows

  1. Click the OneDrive Icon in the bottom right of the Windows taskbar.

  2. In the OneDrive window that opens, click the Settings icon in the top right.

  3. Click Settings.

  4. In the new window that opens, select the Account tab.

  5. Click Add an Account.

  6. Follow the on screen instructions to add an additional account.

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