What Characters Are Not Allowed in OneDrive File Names
OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud storage service, offers users a convenient way to store, share, and sync their files across multiple devices. However, understanding the rules and limitations of file naming is crucial to ensure seamless file management. In this article, we will delve into the characters that are not allowed in OneDrive file names, providing you with a comprehensive guide to avoid common pitfalls.
Special Characters
OneDrive has specific restrictions on special characters that can be used in file names. These characters include:
| Special Character | Description |
|---|---|
| `~!@$%^&()_+-=[]{}|;:'”,.<>/? | These characters are not allowed in OneDrive file names. |
| &39; | Although this character is not explicitly mentioned, it is best to avoid it as it can cause issues with file synchronization. |
It is important to note that these characters are not allowed in any part of the file name, including the beginning, middle, or end.
Spaces and Non-ASCII Characters
In addition to special characters, OneDrive also has restrictions on spaces and non-ASCII characters:
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Spaces: While spaces are generally allowed in OneDrive file names, they can sometimes cause issues with file synchronization. It is recommended to use underscores (_) or hyphens (-) as alternatives to spaces.
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Non-ASCII Characters: OneDrive supports a wide range of characters from various languages. However, some non-ASCII characters may not be compatible with certain devices or applications. It is advisable to use standard ASCII characters to ensure compatibility.
File Name Length
OneDrive has a maximum file name length of 255 characters. This includes all characters, including spaces and special characters. It is important to keep file names concise and within this limit to avoid any issues with file synchronization.
File Name Examples
Here are some examples of valid and invalid OneDrive file names:
| Valid File Name | Invalid File Name |
|---|---|
| example_file.txt | example~file.txt |
| my_report.docx | my report.docx |
| annual_report_2021.pdf | annual_report_2021.pdf! |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your OneDrive files are named correctly and avoid any issues with file synchronization and compatibility.
Conclusion
Understanding the characters that are not allowed in OneDrive file names is essential for effective file management. By avoiding special characters, spaces, non-ASCII characters, and keeping file names within the 255-character limit, you can ensure seamless file synchronization and compatibility across devices. Remember to use valid file names to avoid any potential issues with OneDrive.
