OneDrive File Issues

How to Stop OneDrive Backup and Move Folders to Local Computer

Maira Mehtab Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to stop OneDrive from backing up certain folders so they can be stored locally, while keeping a specific shared video folder synced in OneDrive.

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Managing local storage and cloud sync preferences to separate local files from cloud-synced folders.
Observed behavior: Files are automatically backing up to OneDrive, preventing the user from keeping most files strictly on their local hard drive while retaining only selected items in the cloud.

Before you start

Before making changes to your OneDrive sync settings, ensure your computer is connected to the internet and let any currently pending file syncs complete to avoid data loss.

Solution 1Recommended

Turn Off Folder Backup in OneDrive Settings

Use the built-in OneDrive settings to stop backing up standard Windows folders like Documents, Desktop, and Pictures.

Disabling the backup stops new files in these locations from uploading to the cloud. However, the existing files will remain in your OneDrive folder and must be moved back manually afterward.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows taskbar notification area, click the Gear icon, and select Settings.

Access Backup Settings

Navigate to the Sync and backup tab on the left menu, then click on the Manage Backup button.

Disable Folder Backups

Toggle off the switches for the folders (e.g., Desktop, Documents, Pictures) that you want to stop backing up to OneDrive.

Confirm the Changes

Click 'Stop backup' in the confirmation prompt to apply your new sync settings and close the window.

Files remain in OneDrive: When you stop a backup, your files are not automatically restored to your local folder. A 'Where are my files' shortcut will appear in your local folder pointing to their current location in OneDrive.

Solution 2

Move Files Back to Local Default Locations

After disabling the backup, manually move your personal files out of the OneDrive directory and back to your local PC storage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to my files when I stop OneDrive backup?

When you turn off folder backup, new files added to those local folders won't sync to the cloud. However, your previously synced files will physically remain in the OneDrive folder, and Windows will place a shortcut in your local folder. You must manually move the files back to your local drive if you want them there.

Can I choose which specific folders to sync to OneDrive?

Yes. You can manage specific folders by opening OneDrive Settings, going to the Account tab, clicking 'Choose folders', and selecting exactly which folders you want to be visible and synced on your local PC.

How do I keep just one shared video folder in OneDrive while keeping everything else local?

First, turn off the backup for all standard folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures) in the Sync and Backup settings. Then, manually move your everyday files back to your local drive. Finally, place the specific shared video folder directly into the C:\Users\username\OneDrive directory, so only that folder syncs.

Document & File Issues