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How to Free Up Computer Space While Keeping Files in OneDrive
Question details
The user wants to save local hard drive space by removing downloaded copies of photos and videos while still retaining access to them via OneDrive cloud storage.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Running out of local computer storage space due to large media files synchronized from cloud storage.
- Observed behavior
- Local files are consuming disk space, and the user needs to convert them to online-only files without permanently deleting them from their OneDrive account.
Verify that your OneDrive application is currently running and that all your files have completely finished syncing with the cloud before attempting to remove any local copies.
Use OneDrive Files On-Demand to Free Up Local Space
By enabling Files On-Demand, you can make files available online-only, which removes the local file data from your hard drive but leaves a placeholder icon so you can access the file whenever you are connected to the internet.
OneDrive Files On-Demand is a built-in feature designed to help you manage local storage space efficiently. It allows you to see all your files in File Explorer without having to download them.
When you use the 'Free up space' option, the actual file data is removed from your PC, but the file remains safely stored in your OneDrive cloud account.
Open your local OneDrive folder and check the status column. Ensure that the files you want to manage have a solid green circle with a checkmark or a cloud icon, indicating they are safely backed up to the cloud.
Navigate to the specific photos, videos, or folders that are taking up too much space on your computer and highlight them.
Right-click the selected files or folders and click on 'Free up space' from the context menu. The files will transition to online-only, and the local space will be recovered.
Looking for a Lightweight Office Suite with Built-in Cloud Storage?
If you are trying to free up computer space, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that comes with its own integrated WPS Cloud service to help you manage your files easily without cluttering your local drive.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free, lightweight installer package.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the setup file and follow the quick installation prompts to set up the software on your computer.
- 3. Sign in to activate cloud storage: Open WPS Office and sign in with your email or social account to instantly activate your free WPS Cloud storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will selecting 'Free up space' delete my files permanently?
No. Selecting 'Free up space' only removes the downloaded copy from your local computer's hard drive. The file itself remains safely stored in your OneDrive cloud account and can be accessed anytime.
Can I access online-only files when I have no internet connection?
No, online-only files (marked with a cloud icon) require an active internet connection to open. If you know you will be offline, right-click the necessary files beforehand and select 'Always keep on this device'.
How do I know if a file is taking up space on my computer?
In your OneDrive folder, check the Status column. Files with a green checkmark are downloaded to your device and are taking up local space. Files with a blue cloud icon are online-only and do not consume local storage.
