OneDrive File Issues

How to Reset OneNote Save Locations to OneDrive or Local PC

Phi Hung Vo Oct 8, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to understand how to reset or choose the save locations for OneNote 365 notebooks, specifically deciding between saving to OneDrive for cloud sync or to a local PC drive.

How to Change OneNote Save Locations to OneDrive or Local Storage

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Creating new notebooks and managing where note files are stored to ensure proper backup and cross-device availability.
Observed behavior: Notebooks can be stored locally for single-computer access or on OneDrive for multi-device sync, with default locations set in the Windows user directory.

Before you start

Before creating a new notebook, decide if you need to access your notes from multiple devices (choose OneDrive) or if you want to keep them strictly offline on a single computer (choose Local PC).

Solution 1Recommended

Set Save Location When Creating a New Notebook

This solution allows you to dictate exactly where your notebook is stored right at the moment of creation, avoiding cloud synchronization if you prefer offline storage.

OneNote 365 gives you the flexibility to store notebooks locally or in the cloud. Using OneDrive is recommended if you plan to view or edit your notes from a smartphone, tablet, or another computer.

Navigate to the New Notebook Menu

Open OneNote 365. On the top ribbon, click on the "File" tab, then select "New" from the left-hand sidebar.

Choose Your Storage Destination

You will be presented with storage options. Click on "OneDrive" if you want the notebook to sync online. Alternatively, click on "This PC" to keep the notebook entirely offline.

Confirm Local Save Path

If you chose "This PC", the notebook will default to your standard local storage location. This is normally found at C:\Users\<user>\Documents\OneNote Notebooks.

Set Save Location When Creating a New Notebook

Quick Notes and Backups: Quick Notes can be stored locally, on OneDrive, or outside a designated notebook. Note that your backup locations are managed separately from your default notebook location.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Documents Easily with WPS Office

If you are looking for a reliable, lightweight alternative to Microsoft 365 for managing your documents, WPS Office offers a complete suite with integrated cloud storage. It ensures you have cross-device access without complex syncing configurations.

1. Download and Install WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website, download the free software suite, and follow the simple on-screen prompts to install it.
2. Sign In to WPS Cloud: Log in with your email or social account to activate your free WPS Cloud storage for automatic syncing.
3. Create and Save Your Documents: Start creating your files. Documents saved to WPS Cloud will instantly be available on your mobile phone, tablet, or another computer.

Built-in WPS Cloud allows seamless document synchronization across all your devices.Full compatibility with Microsoft Office file formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Lightweight application that runs smoothly on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.Free to download and use with a highly intuitive, familiar user interface.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I move an existing local OneNote notebook to OneDrive?

Open the local notebook in OneNote, click on 'File' > 'Share', select your OneDrive account, and click 'Move Notebook'. This will safely migrate the notebook to the cloud.

Where does OneNote save its automatic backup files?

By default, OneNote automatic backups are stored locally at C:\Users\<user>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneNote\<version>\Backup. You can change this directory by going to 'File' > 'Options' > 'Save & Backup'.

Can I still edit my OneDrive notebooks when I have no internet connection?

Yes. When you open a OneDrive notebook in the OneNote desktop app, it creates a local cache. You can edit offline, and OneNote will automatically sync your changes the next time you connect to the internet.

Document & File Issues