SharePoint Document Issues

How to Stop Syncing SharePoint Folders Without Deleting Files

Khadija Khan Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to remove synced SharePoint folders from their local File Explorer without deleting the actual files stored in the SharePoint cloud.

How to Stop Syncing SharePoint Folders Without Deleting Files

Product: SharePoint and OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Freeing up local disk space and decluttering File Explorer by stopping the synchronization of specific SharePoint document libraries.
Observed behavior: Deleting files directly from the synced File Explorer folder deletes them from the SharePoint server. A safe method is needed to unsync the folders instead.

Before you start

Ensure your OneDrive desktop app is running and connected to the internet before changing sync settings so that your preferences successfully register with the SharePoint server.

Solution 1Recommended

Stop Syncing the Entire SharePoint Library

Use this method if you no longer need access to any files from a specific SharePoint library in your local File Explorer.

This completely disconnects the chosen SharePoint document library from your PC. Your local folder will stop updating, but all files remain securely stored in the cloud.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system taskbar, select the Gear (Help & Settings) icon, and click on Settings.

Navigate to the Account Tab

In the OneDrive settings window, click on the Account tab on the left sidebar to view all currently synced locations.

Stop Syncing

Locate the SharePoint library you want to remove and click 'Stop sync' next to it. Confirm your choice if prompted.

Safe Deletion: Once the sync is stopped, the folder in File Explorer is no longer connected to SharePoint. You can safely delete any remaining local copies from your hard drive without affecting the cloud files.

Solution 2

Stop Syncing Specific SharePoint Folders

Use this method if you want to keep the main SharePoint library synced but want to hide or remove specific large subfolders from your PC.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Edit SharePoint Documents Easily with WPS Office

While managing your SharePoint and OneDrive sync settings, consider utilizing WPS Office for your document tasks. It is a highly compatible, free, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that easily handles your locally synced cloud documents.

1. Download and Install: Get the free WPS Office suite from the official website and install it on your computer.
2. Open Synced Documents: Use WPS Office to directly open documents saved in your local OneDrive or SharePoint folders.
3. Edit and Save: Make your edits and save. Because of full compatibility, changes will sync flawlessly back to the SharePoint cloud.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).Lightweight architecture ensures quick startup times for locally downloaded cloud files.Familiar tabbed interface makes migrating from Microsoft Office completely seamless.Advanced PDF viewing and editing tools included for free.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Will stopping the sync delete files for other users on SharePoint?

No. Stopping the sync only severs the connection between your local computer and the cloud. The actual files on the SharePoint server remain completely intact and accessible to all other authorized users.

Why do I still see the SharePoint folder in File Explorer after stopping the sync?

If you had files that were downloaded locally (not just online-only shortcuts), those physical files and their folder structure remain on your hard drive. Because the sync is stopped, you can now safely delete that leftover folder from your PC without deleting it from SharePoint.

Can I restart the sync later if I change my mind?

Yes. You can easily reconnect the folder at any time by opening the SharePoint document library in your web browser and clicking the 'Sync' button located on the top command bar.

Document & File Issues