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How to Install Software Locally Without Syncing to OneDrive
Question details
The user wants to download and install software directly to a local hard drive without having its files or working folders automatically synced to OneDrive via the Documents folder.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Downloading and installing new software onto a local hard drive without cloud backup.
- Observed behavior
- Software files and working folders are automatically being copied or saved into the Documents folder, which is actively syncing with OneDrive.
Ensure you know your browser's default download location and check which of your Windows user folders (like Documents or Desktop) are currently being backed up by OneDrive.
Change Your Browser's Default Download Location
Change the default download directory to a local folder that is not synced with OneDrive to prevent installers from being uploaded to the cloud.
By default, browsers may save files to user folders that OneDrive automatically backs up. Changing this to a strict local directory resolves the download sync issue.
Launch your web browser (such as Chrome, Edge, or Firefox) and open the Settings menu.
Scroll down or use the search bar to find the 'Downloads' section in your browser settings.
Click 'Change' next to the current download location and select a local folder that is not monitored by OneDrive (for example, C:\Downloads).
Alternatively, toggle on the option to 'Ask where to save each file before downloading' to manually choose a local hard drive location every time.
Exclude Software Working Folders from OneDrive Sync
Prevent OneDrive from syncing specific folders created by the software in your Documents directory.
Manage Your Documents Locally with WPS Office
If you are tired of background cloud syncing and prefer to have complete control over where your files are stored, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a lightweight, fully compatible office suite that allows you to easily save and manage your documents on your local hard drive without forced cloud synchronization.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer directly to your local hard drive.
- 2. Install Locally: Run the setup file and choose your preferred local directory for installation.
- 3. Choose Your Storage Preference: Create, edit, and save your documents directly to your local PC, with optional cloud features available only when you choose to use them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my downloaded software automatically go to OneDrive?
If your Windows 'Documents', 'Desktop', or 'Downloads' folders are configured to be backed up by OneDrive, any software or files saved to these standard directories will automatically be synced to your cloud storage.
How can I stop OneDrive from syncing my entire Documents folder?
Open OneDrive Settings, navigate to the 'Sync and backup' tab, click on 'Manage backup', and toggle off the backup option for the Documents folder. This will keep your documents saved only on your local hard drive.
Can I choose which specific folders sync to OneDrive?
Yes. Open OneDrive Settings, go to the Account tab, click 'Choose folders', and uncheck any local folders you do not want to sync. The unchecked folders will remain hidden from your local OneDrive directory but will stop uploading to the cloud.
Does changing the download location affect previous downloads?
No, changing your browser's default download location only applies to future downloads. Existing files will remain in their original folder unless you manually move them to your new local directory.
