Matrix of content storage solutions
Microsoft 365 storage limits have changed. For more information, please see Microsoft 365 storage quotas and information.
NEW! The Data Storage Solution tool is designed to help you explore available data storage solutions. Based on your selections, it will suggest potential storage options that may suit your needs.
Features | OneDrive | R: Drive | N: Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
Recommended use | Personal files, or work files related to your individual work | Department work files and sensitive data | Personal files related to your own work |
Default storage space | 100 GB | Not defined | 10 GB |
Maximum file size | 15 GB | N/A | 10 GB |
Connection requirements | Internet connection required to backup files | Internet and VPN (if off-campus) | Internet and VPN (if off-campus) |
Version tracking / history | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Offline sync | Yes | No | No |
Sync to multiple mobile devices | Yes | Laptops only | Laptops only |
256-bit encrypted storage & transfer | Yes | No | No |
Role-based access levels for sharing | Yes | Yes | N/A |
Account used to access | Waterloo email address (e.g. userID@uwaterloo.ca) | Nexus account | Nexus account |
How to access | Web browser, OneDrive sync client | Network drive | Network drive |
Granular permissions at folder and file level | Yes; limited to "can edit" and "can view" | Folder - yes (only root-level), File - no | N/A |
Cross-platform | Yes | Computers only | Computers only |
Approved for sensitive (highly restricted) data | Yes1 | Yes | Yes |
Server location | Microsoft-hosted cloud servers (Canadian) | On-campus servers | On-campus servers |
1Extra security controls such as two-factor authentication (2FA) must be in place. Consult the Information Security Services team for further guidance.
Guides for adding OneDrive accounts
Guides and information for Windows
*These guides also work on Windows 7 and 8. Windows 7 users will need to manually download OneDrive from Microsoft.
Guides and information for Macs