OneDrive File Issues

How to Automatically Sync OneDrive Files to External Storage

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to keep OneDrive files stored locally and whether it is possible to automatically synchronize OneDrive data with an external storage device or another cloud service.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Storing cloud files locally for offline access or using an external drive for synchronization.
Observed behavior: Looking for methods to force OneDrive to download files locally and save them to secondary or external hardware rather than staying cloud-only.

Before you start

Ensure that your computer or external hard drive has sufficient storage space to accommodate all your downloaded OneDrive files, and verify that your external drive is securely connected.

Solution 1Recommended

Download All Files via OneDrive Settings

Use the built-in Files On-Demand settings to force OneDrive to keep all your files locally on your computer instead of strictly in the cloud.

By default, OneDrive uses Files On-Demand to save local disk space by keeping files in the cloud until you open them. Disabling this or selecting 'Download all files' ensures everything is synced and stored locally.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray or menu bar, click the Help & Settings gear icon, and select Settings.

Navigate to Sync and Backup

In the left-hand menu of the Settings window, click on 'Sync and backup' to access your file synchronization preferences.

Download All Files

Expand the 'Advanced settings' or locate 'Files On-Demand', and select 'Download all files'. This will trigger OneDrive to save a local copy of your entire cloud storage.

Offline Availability: Once the download completes, your files will be accessible even when your computer is disconnected from the internet.

Solution 2

Set Up OneDrive on an External Drive

Change your OneDrive folder location to an external hard drive to save local PC space while maintaining a synchronized local copy.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Edit Your Synced Files Seamlessly with WPS Office

While you manage your OneDrive backups, consider WPS Office as a free, lightweight, and easy-to-use alternative to Microsoft Office. It offers excellent format compatibility, a familiar UI, and seamless migration, allowing you to edit your locally synced files effortlessly.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office on your computer. The lightweight installer takes up minimal local storage.
2. Open Your Synced Files: Launch WPS Office, click on 'Open', and navigate to your external drive or local OneDrive folder to access your synced documents.
3. Edit and Save: Make your necessary edits. Once you save the file, OneDrive will automatically detect the changes and sync them back to the cloud.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats like .docx, .xlsx, and .pptxLightweight installation and fast startup times even on external drivesIncludes a familiar user interface for a seamless migration experienceBuilt-in PDF editing tools for comprehensive document management

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sync OneDrive to a removable USB flash drive?

Generally, no. OneDrive requires the storage drive to remain constantly connected and typically must be formatted with a specific file system like NTFS. Standard removable USB flash drives are usually rejected during setup.

What happens if I disconnect my external drive with OneDrive installed on it?

If the external drive is disconnected while OneDrive is running, OneDrive will display an error stating that the folder cannot be found. You will need to reconnect the drive and restart OneDrive to resume normal synchronization.

Can OneDrive automatically sync directly with another cloud service like Google Drive?

No, native automatic synchronization between different cloud storage providers is not supported. To sync OneDrive with another cloud service, you would need to use third-party automation tools or manually move files between the sync folders on your local PC.

How do I make sure specific OneDrive folders are always available offline?

Open File Explorer or Finder, navigate to your OneDrive folder, right-click the specific files or folders you want to keep locally, and select 'Always keep on this device'. The cloud icon will turn into a solid green circle with a white checkmark.

Document & File Issues