To support Marshall University’s strategy to become a center of excellence in cybersecurity, MUIT will be updating default file sharing settings in OneDrive and SharePoint Online to align with best practices in information security and privacy of shared data. Effective Sunday, May 5th, 2024, the changes described in the table below will be applied to all NEW files and folders shared via OneDrive and SharePoint Online by individuals who sign in with their university credentials.
| External Sharing Features | Current Setting | Updated Setting |
| Users can share files and folders using links that don’t require sign-in. | Allowed | Allowed |
| External sharing | Allow guests to share items they don’t own. | Guests must sign in using the same account (email) to which sharing invitations are sent. |
| Guest access to a site or OneDrive will expire automatically after this many days… | Never | 365 days |
| File and Folder Links | ||
| The type of link that’s selected by default when users share files and folders in SharePoint and OneDrive | Anyone with the link | Specific people
(only the people the user specifies) |
| The permission that’s selected by default for sharing links | Edit | View |
| Expiration and permission options for Anyone links | Links never expire | Links expire within 180 days (about 6 months) |
What does this mean for you?
- Increased Security: The updated settings will enhance the security measures surrounding external file sharing, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access to your data.
- Enhanced Privacy Protection: Your personal and sensitive information will be better safeguarded against potential breaches, ensuring greater privacy protection.
Next Actions:
- Review Sharing Practices: Take a moment to review your current sharing practices on OneDrive and SharePoint Online. Ensure that you are sharing files and folders appropriately, considering the updated security measures.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for further communications from the IT department regarding any additional updates or changes to our systems and services.
- Seek Support if Needed: If you have any questions or encounter any issues related to the updated file-sharing settings, please contact our IT support team for help.
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to strengthen the security and privacy of our university’s digital infrastructure. Should you have any concerns or require further clarification, feel free to contact our IT Service Desk.
As always, if you need Technical Assistance: Please contact the IT Service Desk via chat at www.marshall.edu/it , phone 304-696-3200, or email itservicedesk@marshall.edu.