OneDrive File Issues

How to Stop Microsoft 365 App from Creating Blank Files in OneDrive

Natalie Taylor Oct 1, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users need a way to prevent the Microsoft 365 unified application from automatically creating and saving blank documents to OneDrive when opened.

How to Stop Microsoft 365 App from Creating Blank Files in OneDrive

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Launching Word or PowerPoint directly from the unified Microsoft 365 desktop or web application.
Observed behavior: The application automatically generates and saves empty files (such as Document, Document1, and Presentation) into OneDrive. Deleting these files causes the app to display a 'file not found' warning and recreate them.

Before you start

Verify whether this issue occurs only in the unified Microsoft 365 app and web app, as individual desktop installations of Word and PowerPoint typically do not exhibit this auto-save behavior.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Individual Desktop Shortcuts Instead of the Microsoft 365 App

Bypass the unified Microsoft 365 hub by launching Word and PowerPoint directly from their standalone application shortcuts.

The auto-creation bug is specifically tied to the unified Microsoft 365 desktop application and its web counterpart. By opening the individual programs directly, you prevent the hub from attempting to auto-resume or auto-create documents in OneDrive.

Locate standalone applications

Click the Start menu on your taskbar and search for 'Word' or 'PowerPoint' rather than 'Microsoft 365'.

Pin shortcuts for easy access

Right-click the Word or PowerPoint icon in the search results and select 'Pin to taskbar' or 'Pin to Start'.

Launch the programs directly

Click the newly pinned shortcuts to open your applications. This bypasses the Microsoft 365 hub and stops the generation of blank files.

Use Individual Desktop Shortcuts Instead of the Microsoft 365 App

Excel is unaffected: You can continue using the Microsoft 365 app for Excel if you prefer, as this auto-creation bug typically only affects Word and PowerPoint.

Solution 2

Adjust Application Start Screen and Default Save Settings

Modify the default save locations and startup behavior in Word and PowerPoint to discourage saving to OneDrive automatically.

Solution 3

Submit a Bug Report via Microsoft 365 Feedback

Report the auto-creation behavior directly to Microsoft's development team so it can be patched in a future update.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Avoid Cloud Glitches with WPS Office

If the Microsoft 365 app continues to clutter your OneDrive with unwanted blank files, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a robust, standalone desktop experience that respects your local storage preferences and does not force automatic cloud document creation.

1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the download button to get the free installer.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
3. Open your documents safely: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word or PowerPoint files without worrying about unwanted blank documents being created.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptxLightweight desktop application that won't automatically generate blank filesFree to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate user interfaceAll-in-one suite to manage Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files seamlessly

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft 365 keep creating blank 'Document1' files in OneDrive?

This is a known bug associated with the unified Microsoft 365 application and its web version. When launched, the hub attempts to auto-start or auto-resume a session, which incorrectly generates and saves a blank file (like Document1 or Presentation) to your connected OneDrive account.

Does this blank file issue affect Microsoft Excel?

No, user reports indicate that this auto-creation bug primarily affects Word and PowerPoint. Launching Excel from the Microsoft 365 app does not generate unwanted blank spreadsheets.

Will deleting the blank files from OneDrive fix the problem?

No. If you delete the files from OneDrive, the Microsoft 365 app will often display a warning stating the file cannot be found and will immediately create another blank file the next time you launch it.

How can I permanently stop Word from saving to OneDrive by default?

You can change your default save behavior by opening the standalone Word app, navigating to File > Options > Save, and checking the box for 'Save to Computer by default'. However, the best workaround for the Microsoft 365 app bug is to use the individual Word desktop shortcut instead.

Document & File Issues