Gone are the days of transferring content via physical drives. Cloud services have become the go-to option for sharing files, and it’s easy to see why: they’re convenient, accessible, secure, and cost-effective. Microsoft OneDrive and Google Drive are two popular choices.

Cloud storage providers offer mobile apps with the ability to generate shareable links for sending files and media. However, OneDrive stands out from its competitors by providing an extra layer of security for confidential data.

OneDrive for iOS is now available, allowing users to access their files on the go. The app provides a convenient way to store and share documents, photos, and other files from any device.

Microsoft has unveiled new measures to protect shareable links from potential misuse. The updates are designed to help users safeguard confidential files and media when sharing links with others. This post will explain how to secure shareable links for use on mobile and web apps.

1. Add password protection

Microsoft has finally responded to user demand, adding the ability to password-protect OneDrive links before sharing them. Recipients must enter the exact password provided in order to access the files.

Microsoft has made it easy to ensure your OneDrive files remain secure: follow the steps below to access them via the OneDrive web.

Log in to OneDrive with your Microsoft account to get started.

Select the files or folder you wish to share.

Tap the ‘Share’ button in the top left corner of the folder you wish to share.

Set a password in the sharing dialog box.

Create a password-protected link by selecting the ‘Get link’ option.

Share the password-protected link with others to access the files.

Microsoft has announced that the functionality of OneDrive is only available on its Web version, leaving out mobile apps and Windows 10 native app. However, the company is working to add this option to mobile apps in the near future for added convenience.

Adding an expiration time to a OneDrive link is a useful way to ensure it isn’t misused. After the set period of time, the link will become inactive and tapping it will no longer have any effect. Here’s how to do it.

OneDrive Web users can now set an expiration timer on shared links, rather than relying on a password for protection. To do so, follow the steps until the sharing dialog appears and select the gradient link option. This will generate a link that will expire after a predetermined amount of time.

Adding a timer to mobile apps is now possible with these steps.

To get started with OneDrive, download the app and log in with your credentials.

Go to the folder, then tap the three dots to share.

Choose the Link Settings option.

Enabling the “Add due date” option is essential for successful completion of the task.

Set a timer and copy the link from the menu.

I’m increasingly taking advantage of the feature that allows me to set an expiration date for links, as it’s available across all platforms, not just the web. The current link will expire on Tuesday, February 5th.

Adding a password and setting an expiration date for links shared via OneDrive can help ensure maximum security.

The OneDrive app for iOS and Android can be used to access a hidden feature, with the same user interface and design elements across both platforms.

3. Use the ‘View Only’ permission

Confusion often arises when sharing a OneDrive link, as the default setting allows editing. To avoid unwanted changes, users should select the “show only” option instead of “edit.”

To ensure maximum security, it’s best to use the “View Only” option when accessing documents online. If necessary, you can grant edit privileges on a case-by-case basis.

To ensure OneDrive Web users can only view files, not edit them, turn off the ‘Allow editing’ option in the sharing dialog box. This will generate a ‘View only’ link by default.

Tap the three-dot menu in your mobile app, select ‘Share’, and opt for ‘Show only’ from the sidebar menu to make use of it.

Every time you share OneDrive files and media, select the View only option to generate an editable link.

4. Use biometric data

Microsoft encourages users to take advantage of biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning on Android devices, Face ID on iOS devices and Windows Hello on Windows 10, to ensure their security.

To ensure your device is secure, go to Settings > Security and enable the 4-digit password option. If you’re unable to use a biometric option, this will be your default security measure.

Enabling Face ID or Passcode on the OneDrive iOS app requires granting Read permissions for OneDrive folders to appear in the Files app, or else access will be blocked.

Be carefree

Storing files and media on cloud platforms is seen as a more reliable and accessible option than hard drives, with customizable sharing options and security measures to ensure responsible use.

Microsoft has bolstered its security for shareable links, a move that is sure to be welcomed. It’s surprising that Google Drive still lags behind in this regard.

Android users can now sync their folders to OneDrive with the OneSync app. The app allows users to automatically duplicate Android folders to OneDrive, making it easier than ever to keep files backed up and accessible across devices.

Faq

Final note

We hope you found our guide on how to password protect OneDrive links helpful. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Show your support by sharing this article with your friends and family.

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