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How to Enable OneDrive Files On-Demand on a MacBook
Question details
The user needs to locate and enable the OneDrive Files On-Demand feature on a MacBook to view cloud files without downloading them locally.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Optimizing local Mac storage by keeping OneDrive files in the cloud until they are needed.
- Observed behavior
- Settings for Files On-Demand are located in the OneDrive menu bar application rather than in the macOS Finder, making it difficult to find.
Ensure your MacBook is connected to the internet and that you have installed the latest version of the OneDrive application for macOS.
Enable Files On-Demand via the OneDrive Menu Bar Application
Use the OneDrive icon in your Mac's top menu bar to access preferences and activate the Files On-Demand feature.
OneDrive Files On-Demand is an essential feature for saving disk space on your Mac. Instead of downloading every single file, you can browse your entire cloud directory in Finder and only download the items you actually need to open.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Mac menu bar at the top of your screen.
Click the 'More' button at the bottom of the OneDrive flyout menu to display additional options, then select 'Preferences'.
In the Preferences window, locate and click the 'Turn On Files On-Demand' button. Note that the activation process may take several minutes.
Navigate to the 'Account' tab within the Preferences window and click the 'Choose Folders' button.
Select the specific OneDrive folders you want to sync locally to your Mac, then click 'OK' to finish the setup.
Edit OneDrive Files Seamlessly with WPS Office for Mac
While managing your OneDrive cloud storage, consider upgrading your document workflow with WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free alternative to Microsoft Office that easily opens files stored in your local OneDrive folders.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free macOS installer.
- 2. Install the suite: Run the downloaded file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to install WPS Office on your Mac.
- 3. Open OneDrive documents: Launch WPS Office and navigate to your synced OneDrive folder to instantly open, edit, and save your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I find the Files On-Demand option in my OneDrive preferences?
This option might be missing if your macOS version does not support it or if you are using an outdated version of the OneDrive app. Ensure your Mac is running macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later, and update OneDrive from the Mac App Store.
How do I know which OneDrive files are taking up space on my Mac?
Open your OneDrive folder in Finder. Files with a solid green checkmark are saved locally and take up space. Files with a cloud icon are online-only and do not consume local storage.
Can I access my online-only OneDrive files without an internet connection?
No, files marked with a cloud icon (online-only) require an active internet connection to download and open. If you know you will be offline, right-click the file beforehand and select 'Always keep on this device'.
