Microsoft has deployed a new built-in OneDrive feature called Personal safe Add an extra layer of security to your confidential files. In this article, we will show you how to configure and use OneDrive Personal Vault to protect your sensitive data from accidental access.
What is OneDrive Personal Vault?
OneDrive Personal Vault is a "secure" folder in your existing OneDrive storage where you can download or move files and lock them with 2-factor authentication. Whether you are a free or paid OneDrive storage user, you can use this feature without any problem. This security feature is available on the Web version as well as on the OneDrive mobile application.
If you have already downloaded a file, you can move it to OneDrive Personal Vault. You can also download a file directly into this folder. If you have the OneDrive mobile app, you can scan and upload a document directly into the personal vault. OneDrive locks your trunk after twenty minutes of inactivity. After that, you should check with an OTP that would be sent to your registered mobile number or email ID.
What can you download on the personal safe?
You can download everything if it is essential for you. The configuration page gave you an idea of what you can store in the vault. Some of the suggested files are a passport, a driver's license, a birth certificate, a financial plan, a home insurance, an identity document, immigration documents, a power of attorney, etc.
Is OneDrive Personal Vault available to free users? What is the limitation?
Yes, you can use the Personal Vault feature even if you are a OneDrive free storage user. The only limit is that you can store up to three files without paying Office 365 subscription.
How to configure and use OneDrive Personal Vault
To configure OneDrive Personal Vault, follow these steps:
- Open OneDrive and click the Personal Vault option.
- Check with an OTP
- Start moving important files.
Let's see the procedure a little more in detail.
Sign in to your OneDrive account. After that, you should find the Personal Vault icon among other folders. You must click on the Personal safe button.
After clicking on the Next button, you must check yourself. Click on Check button and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
After that you will see this window
It indicates that you have correctly configured Personal Vault in your OneDrive account.
Now you can move your downloaded files, or you can download directly.
How to disable OneDrive Personal Vault
If you do not need this security zone and want to disable OneDrive Personal Vault, follow these steps:
- Click on the gear settings button and go to Options> Personal Vault.
- Click on deactivate button that comes next to Disable the personal vault.
I hope this extra layer of security will come in handy.