How to Set up Microsoft OneDrive for Mac

OneDrive only supports new installations on macOS 10.12 or newer. Information in this article applies to macOS Catalina (10.15) through macOS Sierra (10.12).

OneDrive is included with Microsoft 365 paid subscriptions. However, an Microsoft 365 account is not required to access OneDrive on your Mac. You can download the free OneDrive app for that. It comes with 5 GB of cloud storage, with more available for a fee.

Access your OneDrive folder using a web browser. Browser-based access allows you to make use of the cloud-based storage on any computing platform you find yourself using without having to install the OneDrive app. You can also access OneDrive from your iPhone and iPad by downloading the OneDrive app for iOS devices.

About Microsoft OneDrive for the Mac

For OneDrive, you need a Microsoft account and OneDrive for Mac. Both are free. If you don’t already have a Microsoft ID, go to the Microsoft ID signup screen and click Create a Microsoft account. Once you supply the requested information and create a password, you’ll have a new Microsoft ID. Free OneDrive plans for people who don’t subscribe to Microsoft 365 include 5 GB of space.

OneDrive can be used along with other cloud-based storage services, including Apple’s iCloud, Dropbox, and Google Drive. There’s nothing to stop you from using all four and taking advantage of the free storage tiers offered by each service.

Install OneDrive on Macs with macOS Sierra (10.12) or Later

With macOS Sierra, the free OneDrive application became available in the Mac App Store, which makes installation a breeze.

1. Open the Mac App Store by clicking its icon on the Dock. Type OneDrive in the search bar to locate the app then install it like normal.

2. Launch OneDrive then enter your Microsoft account credentials.
3. To complete the installation, you’ll need to select a location for your OneDrive folder. Click Choose OneDrive Folder Location. You can place it anywhere on your Mac, including the Desktop.

How to Use Microsoft OneDrive

OneDrive acts much like any other folder on your Mac. The only difference is that the data within it is also stored on remote OneDrive servers. In the OneDrive folder you’ll find default folders labeled Documents, Pictures, Attachments, and Public. You can add as many folders as you want and create any system of organization that suits you.

Adding files is as simple as copying or dragging them to the OneDrive folder or appropriate subfolder. After you put files in the OneDrive folder, access them from any Mac, PC, or mobile device that has OneDrive installed. You can also access the OneDrive folder from any computer or mobile device using the web interface.

The OneDrive app runs as a menu-bar item that includes sync status for files kept in the OneDrive folder. Adjust preferences by selecting the OneDrive menu bar item and clicking the three-dot More button. You’re set up and have 5 GB of free space to use. If you find out you need more cloud storage, it is available for a reasonable fee.

OneDrive Plans

OneDrive currently offers only a few tiers of service, including plans that are paired with Microsoft 365.