OneDrive File Issues

How to Back Up Additional Folders with OneDrive on Windows 11

Emma Brown Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to back up arbitrary or additional system folders (such as Downloads, Videos, or custom C: drive folders) to OneDrive.

How to Back Up Additional Folders with OneDrive on Windows 11

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Attempting to include specific, non-default directories into the automated OneDrive cloud backup process.
Observed behavior: OneDrive's built-in backup settings only allow syncing for Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, completely excluding other essential folders and custom directories.

Before you start

Verify that you have sufficient OneDrive cloud storage available to accommodate the additional files, especially if you plan to sync large directories like Videos or Downloads.

Solution 1Recommended

Move or Copy Folders Manually to the OneDrive Directory

Relocating your custom folders directly into the main OneDrive folder is the safest and officially supported method to ensure they are synchronized.

Since OneDrive is designed to sync everything inside its root directory, moving important folders directly into the OneDrive folder forces the application to back them up. Be aware that this changes the actual file path on your computer.

Open File Explorer

Press the Windows key + E on your keyboard to launch File Explorer in Windows 11.

Locate and Cut the Target Folder

Navigate to the folder you wish to back up (e.g., C:\CustomData). Select the folder, right-click, and choose the 'Cut' icon (or press Ctrl + X).

Paste into the OneDrive Folder

Click on the 'OneDrive' shortcut in the left navigation pane of File Explorer. Right-click an empty space inside the folder and select 'Paste' (or press Ctrl + V) to move the folder and trigger the synchronization.

Move or Copy Folders Manually to the OneDrive Directory

Solution 2

Use Symbolic Links to Sync Folders (Advanced)

You can use a command-line trick called symbolic links to make OneDrive think a folder is inside its directory while it actually remains in its original location.

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1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free Windows 11 client and complete the installation process.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I select the Downloads or Videos folder in OneDrive backup settings?

Microsoft designed the native 'Manage Backup' feature in OneDrive to exclusively target the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. Other system folders are excluded by default to prevent excessive cloud storage usage and system conflicts.

Will moving a folder directly into OneDrive change its file path for other apps?

Yes. When you manually move a folder into the OneDrive directory, its absolute file path changes (e.g., to C:\Users\Name\OneDrive\Folder). You may need to reconfigure any software that relies on the old file path to find those files.

Are symbolic links officially supported by OneDrive?

No. While directory junctions and symbolic links often work as a workaround for advanced users, Microsoft does not officially support them in OneDrive. This means you might occasionally encounter sync errors, duplicated files, or broken links.

Can I use third-party backup software instead of OneDrive for arbitrary folders?

Absolutely. If you want full-drive protection or need to back up numerous custom folders without relocating them on your hard drive, using a dedicated third-party backup tool might be more reliable and flexible than forcing OneDrive to do it.

Document & File Issues