How to Stop OneDrive Syncing Files Without Deleting Them from PC
Question details
The user wants to stop OneDrive from syncing certain files to the cloud while keeping those files stored locally on their PC.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Managing local storage and cloud sync preferences for specific files and folders without losing local copies.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive automatically syncs all files within protected folders (like Desktop, Documents, or Pictures) and does not allow the selective exclusion of individual files.
Ensure your files are fully downloaded to your local drive (indicated by a solid green circle with a white checkmark in File Explorer) before moving them out of the OneDrive folder to prevent accidental data loss.
Move Files Outside the Synced OneDrive Folder
The easiest way to stop a specific file or folder from syncing is to move it to a local directory that OneDrive does not monitor.
Because OneDrive does not allow you to selectively exclude individual files within backed-up folders, you must physically relocate the file outside of the OneDrive environment. Any file placed in a standard local directory (like your C: drive root or a custom local folder) will remain on your PC but will not upload to the cloud.
Open File Explorer and navigate to your OneDrive folder where the syncing file is currently stored.
Select the files or folders you want to stop syncing, right-click on them, and select 'Cut' (or press Ctrl+X on your keyboard).
Navigate to a local folder outside of OneDrive (for example, a new folder located at C:\LocalFiles), right-click in the empty space, and select 'Paste' (or press Ctrl+V).
Turn Off Folder Backup for Desktop, Documents, or Pictures
If you want to stop syncing entire default Windows folders, you need to turn off OneDrive's PC folder backup settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exclude a specific file from syncing within a backed-up folder?
No, OneDrive does not support excluding individual files from folders that have backup enabled (like Desktop or Documents). You must either move the file out of the folder entirely or stop backing up the entire folder to stop the sync.
What happens if I simply delete a syncing file from my OneDrive folder?
Deleting a file from the OneDrive folder will remove it from both your local PC and your online cloud storage. To keep the file on your PC without syncing, you must move it to a non-synced local folder rather than deleting it.
How do I know if a file is stored locally or only in the cloud?
In File Explorer, check the status column next to your file. A solid green circle with a white checkmark means it is always kept on your local device. A blue cloud icon indicates the file is stored online-only to save local disk space.
Will turning off the folder backup delete my files?
No, stopping the folder backup will not delete your files. The files will remain safely in their current location within the OneDrive folder, and a shortcut titled 'Where are my files?' will be created in your standard Windows folder to help you find them.
