Microsoft has announced the addition of an offline mode to OneDrive cloud storage.

Offline mode allows users to access specific files on their OneDrive in the browser of their choice, regardless of Internet connection, and will be rolled out globally to both OneDrive work and school users. Users will need to specify which files and folders can be accessed offline. Users will also be able to make local files and folders online-only directly from OneDrive for the Web, without the need to use File Explorer on Windows or Finder on Mac.

Microsoft states that OneDrive offline allows users to view Home, My Files, Shares, Favorites, People, and Meeting views. In offline mode, users can also view selected folders, files, and metadata, and rename, rearrange, move, and copy files using the My Files view. OneDrive is expected to sync all this information when the device is connected to the Internet again. All of this information is supposed to be synchronized when the device is connected to the Internet again.

According to Microsoft, offline mode uses local storage to store certain file information, such as file name, size, creator, and last access date. This is made possible by the OneDrive Sync app, which stores a cache of file metadata locally. Microsoft states that the main benefit of this is a significant improvement in OneDrive load times in the browser and faster file viewing in the browser and OneDrive app in both Microsoft Teams and Outlook.

To begin using offline mode, you will need a Windows PC or Mac running the latest version of the OneDrive sync app. The first step is to log on to OneDrive with Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome; Microsoft has published more information in a support article, including current limitations and how to stop offline mode.

OneDrive is a great service, but it struggles to compete with options offered by other providers. However, this new addition will help put OneDrive on par with Google Drive and Apple's iCloud. Of course, we recommend keeping your security settings up to date and protecting yourself as much as possible when moving files online. Here is our list of the best VPN services in 2024 and our picks for the best antivirus software to ensure that your computer is as secure as possible.