Microsoft Teams & OneDrive Sync Overview

1. Teams Channel Files

• Stored in SharePoint Online (each channel has an associated SharePoint site).
• Opening in Teams: Uses SharePoint's online document previewer.
• Opening in Desktop App: Downloads and edits using OneDrive sync engine (syncs changes back to SharePoint).

2. Private Chat Files

• Stored in OneDrive for Business (under "Microsoft Teams Chat Files" folder).
• Opening in Teams: Uses OneDrive’s online previewer.
• Opening in Desktop App: Uses OneDrive sync client to sync changes back to the cloud.

OneDrive Sync Role

• Editing via desktop apps always uses OneDrive to sync data back to SharePoint.
• Teams channel documents edited in desktop apps: OneDrive sync engine (OneDrive.exe) syncs changes back to SharePoint Online.
• Private chat documents edited in desktop apps: OneDrive syncs back to OneDrive storage, ensuring shared users get updates.

Internet Connection & Offline Editing

• An internet connection is required when not using OneDrive as a sync agent.
• Without OneDrive sync, work cannot be done offline.
• To work offline:
• Use OneDrive sync to save documents locally.
• Open with desktop apps.
• Once reconnected to the internet, OneDrive syncs changes back.

Potential Sync Issues

• If some users edit online while another is offline, the offline version may be outdated.
• Sync conflicts occur when the offline user reconnects and syncs.
• OneDrive may create multiple versions or require manual conflict resolution.