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How to Change OneDrive Sync Preferences in Windows 10
Question details
The user needs to find and configure OneDrive settings to manage which folders synchronize between the cloud and a Windows 10 PC.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Modifying cloud and local folder sync and backup settings without upgrading the operating system.
- Observed behavior
- The user wants to locate the correct settings menus to control online folder downloads and manage protected local folder backups.
Ensure that your Windows 10 PC is connected to the internet and that the OneDrive application is running in your taskbar system tray.
Manage OneDrive Folder Sync and Backup Options
Access the primary OneDrive settings dialog to define exactly which cloud folders download to your PC and which local folders back up to the cloud.
OneDrive splits its synchronization settings into two main functions: choosing online folders to sync to your computer, and managing local Windows folders to back up to the cloud. Depending on recent updates to your OneDrive client, these options are located under either the 'Account' or the 'Sync and backup' tab.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows 10 taskbar notification area. Click the Help & Settings gear icon in the top right corner of the flyout menu, and select 'Settings'.
Navigate to the 'Account' tab (or 'Sync and backup' in newer versions) and click the 'Choose folders' button. Check the boxes next to the online folders you want to have available locally on your computer, then click OK.
Go to the 'Sync and backup' tab and click the 'Manage backup' button. Toggle the switches to protect and sync your important local Windows 10 folders, such as Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, then confirm your choices.
Edit Your Synced Documents Easily with WPS Office
While you manage your OneDrive backups, you may need a reliable application to view and edit your documents. WPS Office is a highly compatible, fast, and free alternative to Microsoft Office that works seamlessly with your synced cloud files on Windows 10.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS website to download the free installer for your Windows 10 PC.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Edit synced files: Open your OneDrive folder in File Explorer, right-click any Office document, and choose to open it with WPS Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'Choose folders' to sync a local PC folder up to OneDrive?
No, the 'Choose folders' option only allows you to select which folders already in your online OneDrive account should be synced down to your PC. To sync local folders up to the cloud, you must use the 'Manage backup' feature.
Why does my OneDrive Settings menu look different than older tutorials?
Microsoft frequently updates the OneDrive client interface. Previously, sync options were heavily grouped under the 'Account' tab. In newer versions on Windows 10, these options have been streamlined and moved under a dedicated 'Sync and backup' tab.
Will unchecking a folder in OneDrive settings delete it from the cloud?
No, unchecking a folder in the 'Choose folders' menu only removes the local copy from your Windows 10 PC to save hard drive space. The folder and its contents remain securely stored in your online OneDrive account.
Which local folders can I back up using 'Manage backup'?
The 'Manage backup' feature in OneDrive is specifically designed to protect your primary Windows user profile folders, which include your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders.
