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How to Disable OneDrive and Keep Files Local on Your PC
Question details
The user wants to stop OneDrive from synchronizing their folders and ensure that a single, complete copy of all files is permanently kept on their local computer without reappearing in cloud-linked directories.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Moving files out of OneDrive folders to local storage to keep them strictly on the device.
- Observed behavior
- Files moved from OneDrive folders to local folders reappear after a computer restart because OneDrive is still actively backing up and synchronizing the directories.
Before making any changes, ensure all your important cloud files are fully downloaded to your local hard drive (marked with a green checkmark) so you do not lose access to them offline.
Unlink Your PC from OneDrive and Move Files Locally
This is the most effective method to stop synchronization immediately without deleting your cloud files, allowing you to safely isolate your local files.
Unlinking your account severs the connection between your PC and the OneDrive cloud. Your existing cloud files are kept safe online, while your local PC stops actively syncing.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar notification area, click the 'Help & Settings' gear icon, and select 'Settings' from the menu.
Navigate to the 'Account' tab in the settings window and click the 'Unlink this PC' link. Confirm your choice when prompted.
Open File Explorer, navigate to your former OneDrive folder, and copy or move all necessary files to a completely independent local directory, such as 'C:\MyLocalFiles'.
Open a web browser and visit https://onedrive.live.com. Log in to verify your cloud files and safely delete them online if you no longer want them stored on Microsoft's servers.
Disable Folder Backup for Specific Directories
If you want to keep OneDrive running but stop it from automatically backing up and restoring standard Windows folders like Desktop, Documents, or Pictures.
Completely Uninstall OneDrive
Use this solution if you have completely migrated your files to local storage and never intend to use OneDrive for cloud synchronization again.
Looking for Software That Keeps Your Files Local? Try WPS Office
If you are moving away from Microsoft OneDrive and prefer keeping your files securely on your local PC, WPS Office is an excellent, lightweight alternative. It provides powerful document editing without forcing unwanted cloud synchronization.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website, download the free installer, and install it on your PC.
- 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing local Microsoft Office files without any formatting loss.
- 3. Save Locally by Default: Go to settings and ensure your default save path is set to your preferred local PC directory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does unlinking OneDrive delete my files?
No, unlinking your PC from OneDrive simply stops the synchronization process. All your previously synced files will remain safely stored online at onedrive.live.com, and local copies will stay on your hard drive.
Why do my files keep reappearing in the OneDrive folder after I move them?
If OneDrive is still linked to your PC and the folder backup feature is enabled, the app continuously monitors those folders. When it detects missing files, it pulls them down from the cloud to restore them during the next synchronization or system restart.
Can I permanently delete my cloud files without deleting my local copies?
Yes. First, you must completely unlink your PC from OneDrive or move your files to an un-synced local directory. Once the PC is no longer syncing, you can log into onedrive.live.com via a web browser and delete the cloud copies without affecting your local storage.
