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How to Fix Cannot Delete Files in OneDrive After Storage Quota Reduction
Question details
Users are unable to delete or move files in OneDrive after their Microsoft 365 storage limit is decreased, causing the account to become frozen or over quota.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to free up space by deleting files after an organization or school unexpectedly reduces the total allowed OneDrive storage capacity.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive locks the account and prevents the deletion or moving of files because the account has already exceeded the newly reduced storage quota.
Verify your current OneDrive storage usage and quota limits by logging into your Microsoft 365 account on the web before attempting to request changes.
Request a Temporary Storage Increase from Your Administrator
To unlock your account and allow file deletions, your school or tenant administrator must temporarily increase your storage quota.
When an account is significantly over its quota, Microsoft 365 restricts file operations, including deletions. This frequently occurs for Education accounts transitioning from 1 TB to 100 GB limits.
Identify your Microsoft 365 tenant or school IT administrator and reach out to their support desk.
Ask for a temporary OneDrive storage quota increase so your account can be un-frozen, allowing you to access and delete files.
Wait for the administrator to apply the temporary storage increase to your account via the SharePoint admin center.
Once the temporary quota is active, log in to OneDrive on the web and immediately move or delete large files to get below your permanent limit.
Empty the First and Second-Stage Recycle Bins
After deleting files under a temporary quota, you must empty both recycle bins to completely free up the storage space.
Switch to WPS Office for Reliable File Management
If Microsoft 365 storage limits and locked accounts are causing workflow disruptions, consider switching to WPS Office. It offers a free, lightweight alternative with excellent format compatibility and flexible file storage options.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official website to download and install WPS Office on your preferred device.
- 2. Open Office Files: Open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents directly in WPS Office.
- 3. Save and Backup: Click 'Save As' to easily store your files locally, circumventing Microsoft 365 storage quota issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my OneDrive storage quota suddenly drop to 100 GB?
Microsoft 365 Education accounts recently underwent policy changes regarding their default storage limits. This often resulted in previously allocated 1 TB quotas being reduced to 100 GB per user by the institution.
Will I lose my files if my OneDrive remains over the storage limit?
Yes, if your account remains significantly over the storage quota for an extended period, Microsoft policies dictate that data may eventually be deleted automatically. It is crucial to back up your important files promptly.
Why doesn't deleting files free up space immediately in OneDrive?
Files you delete are simply moved to the Recycle Bin and continue to count against your storage quota. You must empty both the primary and second-stage recycle bins to permanently erase the files and free up the space.
