OneDrive File Issues

How to Keep OneDrive Files Stored Locally for Offline Access

Natalie Taylor Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to ensure that files transferred to a new computer via OneDrive remain stored locally for offline access, rather than being moved back to the cloud automatically.

How to Keep OneDrive Files Stored Locally for Offline Access

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows 10 / Windows 11
Scenario: Transferring files to a new Windows PC and needing continuous offline access to them without relying on an internet connection.
Observed behavior: Files transferred through OneDrive remain cloud-only by default. Even when downloaded, OneDrive automatically moves folders like Documents back to the cloud.

Before you start

Ensure your computer is connected to a stable internet connection for the initial download phase, as OneDrive will need to fetch the cloud-only files to your local drive before they can be made available offline.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the 'Always keep on this device' Feature

This is the most direct way to force OneDrive to download files and keep them permanently stored on your local hard drive.

By default, Windows uses 'Files On-Demand' to save disk space. By manually selecting the 'Always keep on this device' option, you instruct OneDrive to download the files and never remove the local copies.

Open File Explorer

Launch File Explorer on your Windows computer and navigate to your OneDrive folder located in the left sidebar.

Select Files or Folders

Highlight the specific files or folders you want to make available offline.

Enable Local Storage

Right-click the selected items and choose 'Always keep on this device' from the context menu. Wait for the sync status icon to change to a solid green checkmark.

Use the 'Always keep on this device' Feature

Verify Offline Access: A solid green circle with a white checkmark indicates the file is permanently downloaded. You can now disconnect from the internet and verify that the file opens correctly.

Solution 2

Disable Automatic Folder Backup in OneDrive

Use this solution to prevent OneDrive from automatically moving your local Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders back to the cloud.

Solution 3

Download and Extract a ZIP Backup

This method completely separates your files from the OneDrive synchronization process, ensuring they are never affected by cloud settings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my OneDrive file is stored locally?

Open File Explorer and look at the 'Status' column next to your file. A solid green circle with a white checkmark indicates that the file is downloaded and 'Always kept on this device'. A hollow green circle with a green checkmark means it is locally available but could be removed by Storage Sense to free up space. A cloud icon means it is online-only.

Why did my local documents suddenly move back to OneDrive?

This happens if OneDrive's 'PC Folder Backup' feature is active. When enabled, it automatically redirects standard local folders (like Documents, Desktop, and Pictures) to OneDrive. You need to disable this in OneDrive Settings under 'Sync and backup' > 'Manage backup'.

Can I store my files completely outside of OneDrive?

Yes. You can copy your files or extract a downloaded ZIP backup into a directory that is not managed by OneDrive. Simply create a new folder directly on your local drive (e.g., C:\LocalFiles) and store your documents there to prevent any cloud syncing.

Document & File Issues