Deadline for new Microsoft storage limits extended

This article was updated Apr. 9, 2025. Please note that storage limits will now take effect in Fall 2025. 

For more information, please visit the UTS website. 
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In response to community feedback regarding the new Microsoft storage limits announced in November, the deadline for the new limits will be extended to May 15, 2025. This extension provides users more time to adjust and allows the university to assess potential adjustments to the limits and other storage solutions.   

While the deadline is extended, the need to manage our Microsoft data storage limits remains. We encourage campus community members to continue reducing duplicate and redundant data in your personal Microsoft email and OneDrive. Thanks to the efforts of many individuals across campus, we have seen a reduction in stored data since the fall term.

Our need to manage McMaster’s use of storage within Microsoft has occurred because of Microsoft’s introduction of a new set of global storage limits for academic license agreements, impacting all universities and colleges around the world. When our Microsoft license renews in May 2025, we will move to a pooled storage limit shared by all McMaster users. This spring, Ontario universities will negotiate a new agreement with Microsoft to increase our storage capacity and other features. 

We recognize there are gaps in our institutional storage offerings, outside of Microsoft, that could help address some of the needs that are being brought forward by these storage limit changes, especially around research data. We plan to consult and develop a broader framework and solution model to address data storage guidelines and solutions for these unique situations. 

There are tools available to assist with data management. This includes 100GB of online, searchable Outlook Online Archive for email. We are also offering consultations to individuals interested in receiving support to meet the new limits. You can request a consultation by filling in this form: https://macservicedesk.mcmaster.ca/servicedesk/customer/portal/742/create/6894   

For up-to-date information and a list of FAQs regarding Microsoft storage limits, please visit the Microsoft Storage Limits information page. If you have any questions or require additional assistance, please contact the University Technology Service Desk.  

Thank you for your understanding and patience as we navigate these challenges together.