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Overview
When attaching a file from OneDrive in Outlook, you can send it as a traditional attachment, which sends a copy of the file and does not share your original version. The exact steps depend on whether you are using the desktop application or the web version of Outlook.
Step by Step Guide
Method 1: Using the "Attach as copy" option (Recommended)
This is the most direct method and works for both desktop and web versions of Outlook.
- Start a new email in Outlook.
- Click Attach File.
- Choose Browse Cloud Locations and navigate to your OneDrive.
- Select the file you want to attach and click Next.
- A pop-up menu will appear asking how you want to attach the file. Select Attach as a copy.
Method 2: Drag and drop from File Explorer
This method is a fast way to get a local copy of the file attached to your email.
- Open File Explorer on your computer.
- Navigate to your OneDrive folder, which syncs with your online files.
- Find the file you want to send and drag it directly into the body of your Outlook email.
- Outlook will attach a local copy of the file instead of a link.
Method 3: Change your default settings
If you always want to attach a copy of the file by default when using OneDrive, you can change your Outlook settings.
- In Outlook, go to File > Options.
- Click the General tab.
- Scroll down to the Attachment options section.
- Under the "For files I choose from OneDrive or SharePoint" option, select Always attach them as copies.
Method 4: Copy and paste from File Explorer
This is another way to ensure you are working with a local copy of the file.
- Open File Explorer and go to your synced OneDrive folder.
- Find the file you need and right-click it, then select Copy (or press Ctrl + C).
- Go to your Outlook email draft, right-click in the body of the message, and select Paste (or press Ctrl + V) to add the file as a standard attachment.
Additional Information
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