OneDrive

OneDrive
Microsoft · Public domain · source
Name	OneDrive
Developer	Microsoft
Released	01 August 2007
Operating system	Microsoft Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Genre	Cloud storage, file hosting service
License	Freemium

OneDrive. It is a cloud storage and file hosting service operated by Microsoft as part of its web application suite. The service allows users to store files and personal data in the cloud, synchronize files across devices, and share documents with other users. Originally launched as Windows Live Folders, it has evolved into a core component of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, deeply integrated with applications like Microsoft Word and Microsoft Teams.

Overview

OneDrive functions as a personal cloud for Microsoft account holders, providing a centralized location for file storage accessible from various platforms. It competes directly with services like Google Drive from Alphabet Inc. and iCloud from Apple Inc.. The platform emphasizes seamless integration with the Windows operating system, where it is often pre-installed, and facilitates both personal and professional data management. Its architecture supports real-time collaboration and version history, making it a staple in many enterprise software environments.

Features

Core functionalities include automatic photo backup from mobile devices, known as OneDrive Camera Roll, and Personal Vault for sensitive files protected by identity verification. The service supports co-authoring in real-time within Microsoft Office applications, such as Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Excel. Advanced features include Files On-Demand on Windows 10, which allows users to see and open files without downloading them, and integration with Microsoft Outlook for attaching cloud files directly to emails. It also offers robust sharing controls, including password-protected and expiring links.

History

The service was first introduced in August 2007 as Windows Live Folders during a beta period, before being renamed Windows Live SkyDrive. In 2012, following a trademark dispute with British Sky Broadcasting Group, it was rebranded as SkyDrive. A subsequent legal case with Sky UK led to the final name change to OneDrive in 2014. Significant milestones include its deep integration into Windows 8.1, the launch of the consumer-focused OneDrive Basic plan, and the expansion of storage offerings. Development has been closely tied to the evolution of Microsoft Azure, which underpins its infrastructure.

Integration with Microsoft 365

OneDrive is the default save location for documents within Microsoft 365 applications, formerly known as Office 365. This integration is pivotal for subscription plans like Microsoft 365 Family and Microsoft 365 Business Standard. It works in concert with SharePoint for organizational file management and Microsoft Teams for channel file storage. Users benefit from unified search across Microsoft Graph and automated workflow triggers via Microsoft Power Automate. The synergy enhances productivity suites used by entities like the United States Department of Defense and Walmart.

Security and privacy

Microsoft employs multiple security layers, including Advanced Encryption Standard for data at rest and Transport Layer Security for data in transit. Compliance certifications include ISO/IEC 27001, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act for healthcare, and the General Data Protection Regulation in the European Union. Features like multi-factor authentication and Microsoft Defender integration help protect against threats. Data residency options allow organizations, such as Siemens or the Government of Canada, to specify geographic regions for storage. Privacy controls are managed through the Microsoft Privacy Dashboard.

Platform availability

Native applications are available for Microsoft Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It is also accessible via web browser on platforms like Linux and ChromeOS. The service is integrated into the Xbox ecosystem for saving game data and captures. Enterprise deployment is facilitated through Microsoft Intune and Group Policy for Windows Server environments. Availability and feature sets can vary by region due to local regulations, such as those in the People's Republic of China.

Category:Cloud storage Category:Microsoft services Category:2007 software