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File Storage Options

Overview

This page explains the different storage options available for your files and data, and how to choose the best one for your needs. You will learn about the factors to consider when storing your files, such as security, accessibility, collaboration, and backup. You will also see a table that compares the features of the main storage locations offered by the university.

 

Storage Options

Storage Location Purpose Example Date Request
OneDrive
OneDrive is a cloud-based service within M365 that is meant for personal file storage of your work or school related files. Although you can share files out of your OneDrive, we recommend using Microsoft Teams for team/group active file storage and collaboration. Each active Employee and Student will receive 100 GB of storage with their M365 account.
 
 
Recommended:
  • Personal Files
  • Work in Progress Files
  • Coursework Files
 
Not Recommended:
  • Group Files
  • Research Data
  • Large Backup Files
  • EXEs, ISOs, PSTs
No request needed.
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a cloud-based service within M365 that is meant for team/group active file storage and collaboration. Microsoft Teams is not meant as a backup solution for large amounts of data; if you’re looking for a backup solution for large amounts of data, network storage may be a better solution. A Team comes with 100 GB of storage.

Recommended:

  • Collaborative Content
  • Documentation
  • Project Files
  • Group Files

Not Recommended:

  • Research Data
  • Large Backup Files
  • Personal Files
  • EXEs, ISOs, PSTs
 Use this link to request a Microsoft Team.
SharePoint – Standalone Site
A standalone SharePoint site is meant for team/group active file storage. This option would be like a Microsoft Team, but without the Teams interface and collaborative functionality. A SharePoint site is not meant as a backup solution for large amounts of data; if you’re looking for a backup solution for large amounts of data, network storage may be a better solution. A site comes with 100 GB of storage.
Recommended:
  • Group Files
  • Project Files
  • Documentation
  • Collaborative Content
 
Not Recommended:
  • Research Data
  • Large Backup Files
  • Personal Files
  • EXEs, ISOs, PSTs
 Use this link to request a Standalone Sharepoint Site 
Shared Drive
A shared drive is an on-prem (requires you to be on the Mandela Uni network) storage solution for your department.
Recommended:
  • Large Team Files
  • Backup Files
  • Research Data (non-ITAR)
  • EXEs, ISOs
Not Recommended:
  • PSTs
  • Collaborative Content
 Use this link to request assistance.