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License & Subscription Issues

Does Microsoft 365 Business Basic Include OneDrive Desktop App?

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Oct 12, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user wants to clarify if a Microsoft 365 Business Basic license permits the use of the OneDrive desktop synchronization client or if access is restricted to the browser only.

Does Microsoft 365 Business Basic Include the OneDrive Desktop App?
Product
Microsoft 365 / OneDrive
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Determining application inclusions and synchronization capabilities for a Microsoft 365 Business Basic subscription.
Observed behavior
The user needs to know the correct configuration and licensing limits regarding the OneDrive desktop application for a Business Basic account.
Before you start

Ensure you have your Microsoft 365 Business Basic login credentials ready, and verify that your computer's operating system supports the latest version of the OneDrive desktop client.

Solution 1Recommended

Install and Configure the OneDrive Desktop Client

The Microsoft 365 Business Basic license fully includes access to the OneDrive desktop client. You can install it and sign in to sync your files locally.

While Microsoft 365 Business Basic only provides web and mobile versions of core Office apps (like Word and Excel), it does include the desktop synchronization client for OneDrive. This allows you to manage your 1 TB of cloud storage directly from your computer's file explorer.

1
Download the OneDrive App

Navigate to the official Microsoft OneDrive download page and download the desktop client if it is not already pre-installed on your operating system.

2
Sign In with Work Credentials

Open the OneDrive application and enter the email address associated with your Microsoft 365 Business Basic account, then follow the prompts to enter your password.

3
Configure Sync Folders

Follow the on-screen setup guide to choose the location of your OneDrive folder on your local drive and select which specific cloud folders you want to sync to your computer.

Install and Configure the OneDrive Desktop Client
Installation or Sign-in Failures: If you are unable to install the application or sign in, verify your organization's device policies. Some companies restrict endpoint synchronization. Contact your Microsoft 365 IT administrator for further assistance.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Boost Your Productivity with WPS Office

While Microsoft 365 Business Basic only offers web versions of Office apps, you can install WPS Office as a free, lightweight desktop alternative to edit your synced OneDrive documents seamlessly.

  1. 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office for free from the official website.
  2. 2. Access Synced Files: Open WPS Office, click on 'Open', and navigate to your local OneDrive folder configured with your Business Basic account.
  3. 3. Edit and Save: Edit your documents locally in WPS Office. Any saved changes will automatically sync back to the cloud via your OneDrive desktop client.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Seamlessly edit files synced via your OneDrive desktop app right on your local computer.Lightweight installation ensures fast startup times and smooth performance.Free access to robust document, spreadsheet, and presentation editing tools.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Microsoft Word and Excel desktop apps with Business Basic?

No, Microsoft 365 Business Basic only includes the web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Only the OneDrive desktop client is included for local installation. To use desktop document editors, you need to upgrade your plan or use a free alternative like WPS Office.

How much OneDrive storage is included with a Business Basic license?

Microsoft 365 Business Basic typically provides 1 TB of OneDrive cloud storage per user. You can access this storage via a web browser or sync it to your local machine using the desktop client.

Why is my OneDrive desktop app not syncing my business files?

Sync issues can occur due to unstable internet connections, outdated OneDrive application versions, or strict organizational security policies. Ensure your app is updated, check your network connection, and contact your IT administrator to confirm your device is authorized to sync company data.