Microsoft OneDrive: Request Secure or Large Files from Anyone with instructions for Recipients to Send Files

Overview

You can use Microsoft OneDrive to request secure or large files from anyone. OneDrive files are certified for HIPAA/PHI, FERPA, and PII data, so you know the sender’s data will remain secure.

Tip Differentiating Between Files: Encourage non-UT email recipients to enter their real first and last names when they upload the file. This name will be appended to the file name so that file names will be different if you request the same file from multiple people. UT users will automatically have their name added to the file name. If you have multiple people with the same name, a number starting with 1 will be added to the file name to keep them separate.

Tip Tiny URL and renewing link: Create a Tiny URL at tiny.utk.edu using the request link. You can then send this URL to anyone you wish to send you files. Links open to anyone expire after one year. If you use a tiny URL, you can renew the tiny URL each year when you create a new share link in OneDrive. You can set an expiration on any link.

Note: People who respond to your request can only upload files. They can’t view or edit the contents of your OneDrive.

Instructions: Request a File Using OneDrive

Instructions for Recipient to Send or Upload a File to OneDrive

 

Instructions: Request a File Using OneDrive

  1. screenshot of onedrive showing ellipsis menu and request fileOpen OneDrive to highlight the folder where you want to receive files.
     
  2. Select the ellipsis … menu next to the folder.
     
  3. Choose Request files.







     
  4. request files for this folder name menuName the request –
    Tip: Anyone with the link will see the name you choose. If requesting information from multiple people, pick a generic name like “file requests” rather than something specific like “assignment 12.” You could have multiple folders for sharing different topics. Example: English 101, English 102.









     
  5. send file copy menuCopy the link to send to the recipient.
    Tip: Don’t use the send option in the pop-up box. Send a separate chat or email.
     
  6. After you’ve shared the request link, the recipient can open the link and upload a file. Once they’ve done so, you’ll receive an email that the file has been uploaded, and you’ll see it in your OneDrive.








Instructions: Recipient Send or Upload a Requested File to OneDrive

  1. recipient linkOpen the link sent from the requester.
     
  2. This will open the file explorer on your computer. Select the file you wish to upload.














     
  3. UT person linkChoose the Upload button to upload the file. You may upload additional files at the same time.
    • Recipients who are logged into Microsoft 365 with a UT email address will see a screen that looks like this:



















       
    • non ut viewNon-UT recipients will see a screen that looks like this:

      Tip: If the link does not work at first, try again or try a different browser.
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