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Does Deleting a Disconnected SharePoint Folder Delete Online Files?
Question details
The user needs to know if deleting a local SharePoint folder will permanently delete the files from SharePoint Online after the folder has been disconnected from the OneDrive sync client.
- Product
- OneDrive and SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Freeing up local hard drive space by removing previously synced SharePoint document libraries without accidentally deleting the cloud data.
- Observed behavior
- Deleting files while synchronization is still active removes them from the cloud and other devices, whereas safely stopping the sync first preserves the online copies.
Verify that your computer is connected to the internet so that OneDrive can accurately reflect the current sync status before you attempt to make any changes to your folders.
Verify Sync Disconnection and Safely Delete Local Files
Use this solution to confirm that your SharePoint library is completely unlinked from OneDrive before you delete the local folder, ensuring your cloud files remain safe.
Disconnecting a SharePoint document library from the OneDrive sync client removes the synchronization connection. However, if changes or deletions are made before the unlinking process is fully complete, those actions may still synchronize to the cloud.
It is crucial to verify that the synchronization has entirely stopped and that the sync status icons have disappeared from your local files before you proceed with deletion.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray or taskbar, click on 'Help & Settings' (the gear icon), and then select 'Settings'.
In the OneDrive settings window, click on the 'Account' tab to view a list of all your currently synced locations.
Locate the specific SharePoint document library you want to remove from your PC and click the 'Stop sync' link next to it.
Open File Explorer and navigate to the SharePoint folder. Ensure that the sync status icons (such as green checkmarks, blue clouds, or syncing arrows) are no longer visible next to the files.
Once you have confirmed the folder is completely disconnected and lacks sync icons, right-click the folder and select 'Delete' to remove the local copies without affecting SharePoint Online.
Manage Cloud Documents Easily with WPS Office
Dealing with complex local synchronization settings can be risky and confusing. WPS Office provides a lightweight and free alternative that lets you connect directly to cloud storage services, allowing you to edit documents securely without worrying about local sync conflicts.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your device.
- 2. Connect Your Cloud: Open WPS Office, navigate to the 'Open' menu, and select 'Add Cloud Storage' to connect your preferred cloud drive.
- 3. Edit Without Syncing: Open your documents directly from the cloud connection, edit them, and save them straight back to the cloud safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I delete a file while the SharePoint folder is still syncing?
If you delete a file from a synced SharePoint folder while OneDrive is still actively synchronizing, the deletion will be mirrored in the cloud. The file will be removed from SharePoint Online and will also be deleted from any other devices connected to that library.
How can I tell if my SharePoint folder is completely disconnected from OneDrive?
You can tell the folder is disconnected when it no longer appears in the 'Account' tab of your OneDrive settings. Additionally, when you view the folder in File Explorer, the sync status icons (like green checkmarks or blue clouds) next to the files will be completely gone.
Can I recover my files if I accidentally deleted them before stopping the sync?
Yes. If files were accidentally deleted while sync was active, you can typically recover them by accessing the SharePoint Online Recycle Bin or your OneDrive Recycle Bin via a web browser. Files are generally kept there for up to 93 days before permanent deletion.
Does signing out or unlinking my PC from OneDrive delete my cloud files?
No, unlinking your PC or signing out of your OneDrive account only stops the synchronization process between your local computer and the cloud. All of your uploaded files remain safely stored in OneDrive and SharePoint Online.
