OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Changing File Modified Dates When Opening Documents

Nimra Malik Sep 25, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user wants to prevent file modified timestamps from updating automatically when a document is opened but not edited.

How to Stop OneDrive from Changing File Modified Dates When Opened

Product: Microsoft OneDrive and Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Opening a synced document stored in Microsoft OneDrive to view its contents without making any changes.
Observed behavior: The file's modified date updates immediately upon opening, likely caused by AutoSave or a background synchronization process writing to the file.

Before you start

Ensure your OneDrive client is actively running and fully synced to rule out any delayed synchronization issues affecting file metadata.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable AutoSave in Microsoft Word

Turning off AutoSave prevents Word from automatically writing to the file upon opening, which stops the modified date from changing unnecessarily.

When AutoSave is enabled for Microsoft 365 files, opening a document triggers an initial save operation to prepare for real-time co-authoring. This background action alters the file's modified timestamp even if you do not type anything.

Open Word Options

Launch Microsoft Word, click on the "File" tab in the top-left corner, and select "Options" at the bottom of the menu.

Navigate to Save Settings

In the Word Options dialog box, click on "Save" in the left-hand navigation pane.

Turn off Default AutoSave

Uncheck the box labeled "AutoSave OneDrive and SharePoint Online files by default on Word". Click "OK" to apply your changes.

Test with a Copied File

Create a copy of a file in your OneDrive folder and open it to verify that the modified date no longer changes automatically.

Missing AutoSave Option: If you do not see the AutoSave checkbox under the Save options, verify that you are signed into your Microsoft 365 account and that your Office version supports real-time cloud saving.

Solution 2

Check OneDrive Sync Status and Report the Issue

If disabling AutoSave does not resolve the timestamp changes, there may be a defect or delay with your OneDrive synchronization service.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Reliable File Management

If you are frustrated by unintended changes to your file metadata or synchronization bugs in Microsoft 365, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with seamless cloud saving that strictly respects your document modification dates.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free WPS Office suite on your device.
2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files directly without worrying about automatic metadata changes.
3. Enable WPS Cloud (Optional): Sign in to activate your free WPS Cloud storage for secure, reliable file synchronization across all your devices.

Completely free and lightweight office suite for Writer, Spreadsheet, and Presentation.Fully compatible with all Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Built-in WPS Cloud that accurately preserves original file modification dates and metadata.Familiar user interface that requires zero learning curve to master.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does simply opening a file change its modified date in OneDrive?

When AutoSave is enabled in Microsoft 365, opening a cloud-synced file triggers a background save operation to establish a connection for real-time co-authoring. This initial background write operation updates the modified timestamp even if you haven't typed anything.

Will disabling AutoSave prevent real-time collaboration?

Yes. AutoSave is required for real-time co-authoring in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. If you disable it to prevent file timestamps from changing upon opening, you will need to save manually, and others will not see your edits in real time.

Why is there a delay in modified dates syncing across multiple devices?

Sync delays can occur due to network connectivity issues, background service throttling, or pending application updates. Changes made on one device may sometimes take 20 to 30 minutes to appear on another device unless manually refreshed or forced to sync.

How can I view the actual last edited time of a document?

You can check the document's version history in OneDrive or right-click the file in Windows File Explorer, select 'Properties', and view the 'Details' tab to see both creation and modification metadata.

Document & File Issues