Tech Guide: Microsoft OneDrive security

by Gloria Bakerian | May 12, 2025 | Tech Guide, Business Continuity, Cybersecurity, Security

Microsoft OneDrive security is essential for protecting business data across devices and locations.

Welcome to your practical guide to Microsoft OneDrive security!Improve Microsoft OneDrive security by enabling MFA and reviewing your file-sharing permissions regularly.

At Professional Computer Concepts, we believe that cloud tools should make your work easier, not introduce new risks. OneDrive is a powerful and flexible way to store and share files, but only if it is used with care.

Whether your team is accessing documents in the office, on a job site, or from home, your business depends on keeping those files protected. Misconfigurations, oversharing, and insecure devices are some of the most common weak spots we see, especially in small and mid-sized businesses where OneDrive is already in heavy use.

We help Bay Area companies get the most out of OneDrive by making sure it’s secure, compliant, and easy to manage. From setting the right permissions to enabling monitoring and backup, we put the controls in place that help you protect what matters most.

If your staff works with sensitive data like client files, contracts, or financial information, OneDrive security applies to you. It’s time to stop thinking of OneDrive as just storage. It’s part of your cybersecurity footprint.

Here’s what you need to know to use it safely.

Use Strong Authentication

Always log into OneDrive with strong authentication. Authentication is the process of verifying that you are who you say you are when logging into an account. It usually starts with something you know, like a password. Using strong authentication means enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your Microsoft 365 account. MFA requires an additional verification step—like a code sent to your phone or an app notification—in addition to your password, which adds an extra layer of security. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to access your files without the second verification step.

Learn more about the power of MFA in our Ultimate MFA Q&A Guide.

Strong Microsoft OneDrive security helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive business documents.Know What You’re Sharing

Accidental file sharing is one of the most common Microsoft OneDrive security mistakes. Before sharing a document or folder:

  • Double-check the recipient’s email address

  • Set expiration dates for shared links

  • Choose view-only access unless editing is necessary

  • Avoid using “Anyone with the link” for sensitive files

It only takes a few clicks to limit access, and it is worth the peace of mind.

Microsoft on OneDrive Security: “OneDrive is designed to provide a secure environment for storing and sharing files, with robust security features that help protect user data from unauthorized access, hacking, and other threats. Strong Microsoft OneDrive security is not just a best practice—it’s essential for keeping your business data safe.”

Keep Your Devices Secure

If your laptop or mobile device is lost or stolen, OneDrive can become a security risk. Protect your device with:

  • Full-disk encryption

  • Automatic screen locking

  • Remote wipe capabilities (especially for mobile)

  • An up-to-date antivirus and endpoint protection solution

We recommend company-managed devices be enrolled in Microsoft Intune or a similar MDM solution.

Learn more about Mobile Device Management (MDM) in our Tech Guide on What is Mobile Device Management?

Monitor File Activity Many small businesses overlook Microsoft OneDrive security, putting their data at unnecessary risk.

OneDrive tracks activity on files and folders, so you can review changes, access history, and spot anything unusual. Businesses using Microsoft 365 should also enable:

  • Audit logging

  • Alerts for suspicious activity

  • Integration with Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps for advanced monitoring

If you see something that doesn’t look right, report it to your IT team immediately.

Back Up What Matters

OneDrive is not a substitute for backups. Files can be deleted, overwritten, or encrypted by ransomware. To ensure business continuity, make sure your OneDrive files are included in your backup and disaster recovery solution.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft OneDrive makes collaboration easier, but only when it’s used with the right security in place. The tips in this guide cover some of the key security features available, but this is by no means a complete list. OneDrive is a flexible and evolving platform, and there are many more options depending on your business needs.

If you have questions about anything in this blog or want help reviewing your Microsoft OneDrive security settings, reach out to us today. We’re always here to answer questions and provide clear, practical guidance. At Professional Computer Concepts, we make sure your cloud tools work for you and not against you. Contact us today!