How to Keep Files on a PC While Removing Them from OneDrive
Question details
The user wants to remove files from their OneDrive cloud storage but keep the local copies securely on their computer.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows PC
- Scenario
- Managing local computer storage and cloud synchronization without losing files.
- Observed behavior
- Deleting a synchronized file directly from the OneDrive folder or online automatically deletes the local copy on the PC.
Before modifying your OneDrive settings or deleting files online, ensure you have enough available hard drive space on your PC to store the files locally.
Move Files to a Local Folder Outside the OneDrive Directory
Relocating files to an un-synced local folder completely removes them from OneDrive's control, preventing the cloud from deleting your local copies.
This is the most straightforward method. By moving files out of the designated OneDrive synchronization folder into a standard local folder (like a new folder on your C: drive), OneDrive will automatically remove the copies from the cloud while your local files remain safe.
Open File Explorer and navigate to your C: drive (e.g., C:\Users\YourName). Right-click, select 'New', then 'Folder', and name it something like 'Local Files'.
Open your OneDrive folder from the left pane in File Explorer.
Select the files you want to keep locally, cut them (Ctrl + X), and paste them (Ctrl + V) into the new 'Local Files' folder you just created.
Once moved, OneDrive will notice they are gone from the sync folder and remove them from your online cloud storage automatically. Your files are now safe locally.
Stop OneDrive Folder Backup for Desktop, Documents, or Pictures
If your default Windows folders are syncing to OneDrive, you must disable the folder backup feature to keep these files exclusively on your local PC.
Take Control of Your Local Files with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by forced cloud synchronization and want more control over where your documents are saved, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible suite designed to let you manage your local files easily without unexpected cloud deletions.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions.
- 3. Save locally with ease: Open the application, create a new document, and go to Menu > Save As to easily browse and select your preferred local Windows directories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do files disappear from my PC when I delete them from OneDrive online?
OneDrive uses a two-way synchronization engine. When a file is stored in your OneDrive folder, any change made online (including deletion) is automatically mirrored on your local PC to ensure both locations stay identical.
Are my Music and Video folders automatically synced to OneDrive?
No. By default, OneDrive primarily targets the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders for its automated PC folder backup. Music and Videos are not included unless you manually drag those folders into your OneDrive directory.
If I unlink my PC from OneDrive, will my local files be deleted?
Unlinking your PC completely stops the synchronization process. Any files that are already downloaded and stored locally in your OneDrive folder will remain safely on your computer, but future changes will not be synced to the cloud.
How can I tell if a file in my OneDrive folder is stored locally or just online?
Open File Explorer and look at the 'Status' column next to the file. A solid green checkmark means the file is downloaded and always available on your device, while a blue cloud icon indicates it is an online-only file and will require internet access to open.
