Academic Computing Technologies (ACT)

How to Access and Manage Department Files in SharePoint

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Audience: Fullerton College staff

Overview: Department files previously stored on on-premises servers have been migrated to SharePoint, accessible via Microsoft Teams, SharePoint web, or OneDrive shortcuts. This article guides you to access files using web-based SharePoint (recommended) or add a shortcut to OneDrive, avoiding OneDrive Sync to prevent data issues. Use these methods on campus-issued devices.

Prerequisites

  • An FCNet account (e.g., [email protected]) with access to your department’s Team/SharePoint site.
  • Membership in your department’s Microsoft Team (confirm with your Division/Department Admin or steward).
  • Internet access for initial setup; web access works offline with Files On-Demand.

Instructions

Option 1: Access Files via SharePoint Web (Recommended)

  1. Log In:
    • Go to https://o365.fullcoll.edu/ and sign in with your FCNet email and password.
    • Complete MFA if prompted.
  2. Open Teams or SharePoint:
    • Click the Teams tile, select your department’s Team, navigate to the General channel, and click Files.
    • Alternatively, click the SharePoint tile and select your department’s site (e.g., “ACT Staff”).
  3. View Files:
    • Files appear in the Documents library (may be under General or Migrated).
    • Open files directly in web-based Office apps (Word, Excel) or download as needed.
  4. Best Practices:
    • Use web access to avoid syncing issues.
    • For frequent access, pin the SharePoint site to your browser bookmarks.

Option 2: Add a Shortcut to OneDrive

  1. Navigate to Files:
    • In Teams or SharePoint web, go to your department’s Files (as above).
    • Click Open in SharePoint (top-right).
  2. Add Shortcut:
    • In SharePoint, click Add shortcut to OneDrive (top toolbar).
    • The folder appears in your OneDrive under My files > Shortcuts (viewable in File Explorer or OneDrive web).
  3. Access Files:
    • Open File Explorer, find OneDrive – Fullerton College, and expand Shortcuts to view files.
    • Files are accessed on-demand (requires internet) unless marked for offline use (see Files On-Demand below).
  4. Best Practices:
    • Use shortcuts instead of syncing to minimize data duplication.
    • Enable Files On-Demand to save space (see How to Use OneDrive for File Storage and Sharing).

Avoid OneDrive Sync

  • Why Avoid Sync: Syncing large department folders can cause data conflicts, slow performance, and storage issues on local devices.
  • Alternative: Use web-based SharePoint or shortcuts for reliable access.
  • If Sync Enabled: To stop, right-click the OneDrive cloud icon > Settings > Account > Stop sync for the folder. Contact ACT for cleanup.

Notes

  • Access: Confirm Team membership with your department steward or submit an SR at https://www.fullcoll.edu/service-requests/.
  • Files On-Demand: Enable in OneDrive settings to access files without full download.
  • Performance: Web access is faster than syncing, especially for large repositories.
  • Policy Compliance: Follow NOCCCD’s Acceptable Use Policy (AP 3720).

FAQs

Why can’t I find my department’s files?
You may not be a Team member. Contact your department steward or submit an SR.

Can I sync files to my home device?
Not recommended due to data issues. Use web access or shortcuts instead.

How do I access files offline?
Enable Files On-Demand and mark specific files for offline use in OneDrive.

Support

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: (714) 992-7111
  • In-Person: Building 500, Room 517, during business hours
  • Microsoft Resources: SharePoint overview link
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