How to Open and Transfer a OneNote .onepkg File
Question details
The user needs to open a downloaded .onepkg package to transfer notebook data from a work account to a personal account.

- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Transferring notebooks between accounts using a downloaded .onepkg file.
- Observed behavior
- The .onepkg package does not appear in OneNote's default Open dialog, preventing the user from importing the notebook.
Verify the exact folder location where your browser saved the downloaded .onepkg file, which is typically your local 'Downloads' folder.
Open the File Directly via File Explorer
The quickest way to open a .onepkg file is to bypass OneNote's Open dialog entirely and launch it straight from your local folders.
Since OneNote's built-in Open menu prioritizes cloud locations like OneDrive, it often fails to display local backup files. Using Windows File Explorer forces OneNote to recognize and unpack the file.
Press Windows Key + E on your keyboard to launch Windows File Explorer.
Navigate to the folder where the .onepkg file was saved. If you downloaded it from a browser, check the 'Downloads' folder.
Double-click the .onepkg file. OneNote will automatically open and prompt you to unpack and save the notebook to a new location.

Navigate Using the Browse Option in OneNote
If you prefer opening the file from within the application, you must use the specific Browse function to locate local files.
Experience Seamless Document Management with WPS Office
While .onepkg files are exclusive to Microsoft OneNote, WPS Office provides a comprehensive, lightweight, and free alternative for all your document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs, making it easier to manage your daily tasks.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installation file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Start creating and syncing: Launch WPS Office, sign in to enable cloud syncing, and easily manage your notes, documents, and spreadsheets in one familiar workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a .onepkg file?
A .onepkg file is a compressed OneNote package archive. It contains a complete notebook, including all sections, pages, text, and embedded media. It is primarily used for exporting, backing up, or transferring complete notebooks between different accounts or computers.
Why can't I see my .onepkg file in the OneNote Open menu?
OneNote's default Open menu prioritizes cloud locations such as OneDrive and SharePoint. It intentionally hides local folders and standalone package files unless you manually select the 'Browse' option to search your local hard drive.
Can I open a .onepkg file on a Mac?
No, the .onepkg file format is currently only supported by the Windows desktop version of OneNote. Mac users cannot open or import these packages directly and must instead sync notebooks through their OneDrive account.




