OneDrive File Issues

How to Upload Non-Microsoft Files to OneDrive

Olivia Miller Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know if they can use their included Microsoft 365 Family 1TB OneDrive storage to upload and save files created by non-Microsoft applications.

How to Upload Non-Microsoft Files to OneDrive

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows PC
Scenario: Uploading documents, images, videos, and other third-party files to Microsoft 365 OneDrive.
Observed behavior: The user is seeking confirmation on file type compatibility and the correct steps to upload non-Microsoft files to their Windows Home Edition PC's OneDrive storage.

Before you start

Ensure that your Windows PC is connected to the internet and that you are signed into your Microsoft 365 Family account with sufficient OneDrive storage space available.

Solution 1Recommended

Upload Files using the Windows OneDrive Folder

The easiest way to upload any file type is by moving it directly into the local OneDrive folder on your Windows PC, which will automatically sync it to the cloud.

OneDrive supports nearly all file types, including non-Microsoft documents, images, and videos. By placing files in your local OneDrive folder, the desktop client will handle the synchronization in the background.

Open File Explorer

Press the Windows key + E on your keyboard to open File Explorer.

Locate your OneDrive Folder

In the left-hand navigation pane, click on the 'OneDrive' folder associated with your Microsoft 365 account.

Create a New Folder (Optional)

Right-click inside the OneDrive directory, select 'New', and then 'Folder'. Name it appropriately for your non-Microsoft files.

Copy or Move Files

Drag and drop the non-Microsoft files from their original location into the OneDrive folder. Alternatively, you can copy (Ctrl+C) and paste (Ctrl+V) them.

Wait for Synchronization

Check the status icons next to the files. A blue circular arrows icon means it is syncing, and a solid green checkmark means the upload is complete.

Backup Recommendation: For highly important files, it is recommended to keep an additional backup on an external hard drive rather than relying solely on a single cloud copy.

Solution 2

Upload Files via OneDrive on the Web

If you are away from your primary Windows PC, you can manually upload non-Microsoft files directly through the OneDrive website.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Create and Edit Diverse File Formats with WPS Office

If you frequently work with various file types and need a lightweight, cost-effective solution, WPS Office is highly recommended. It seamlessly integrates with your local drive, allowing you to save files directly to your synced OneDrive folder.

1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office from the official website and follow the easy installation instructions for your Windows PC.
2. Open or Create Your File: Launch WPS Office and open your existing non-Microsoft document, or create a new one using Writer, Spreadsheets, or Presentation.
3. Save to OneDrive: Click 'Menu' > 'Save As', then navigate to your local OneDrive folder to save the document so it automatically syncs to your cloud.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats like .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Lightweight software that runs smoothly on Windows PCs without slowing them down.Built-in PDF tools to create, edit, and convert PDF files effortlessly.Free to use, making it the perfect alternative to expensive subscription models.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my 1TB Microsoft 365 storage allow all non-Microsoft files?

Yes, your 1TB of Microsoft 365 Family storage can be used for virtually any file type, including photos, videos, CAD files, and PDFs, as long as they do not violate Microsoft's terms of service.

Why are some files not syncing to OneDrive?

Files may not sync if they exceed the maximum file size limit (250GB), contain restricted characters (such as ", *, :, <, >, ?, /, \, |), or if you have run out of your 1TB storage space.

Can I open non-Microsoft files directly in the OneDrive web browser?

OneDrive allows you to preview many common formats like PDFs, JPGs, and MP4s online. However, for specialized third-party formats, you will need to download the file to your PC and open it with its native application.

Document & File Issues