How to Use OneDrive Files Online-Only or Store Locally in Windows
Question details
The user wants to manage a large amount of synced images on OneDrive because their internal Windows 10 drive lacks the capacity to store them all locally.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Managing large OneDrive sync folders when the internal hard drive space is running low.
- Observed behavior
- The internal drive lacks enough storage space to keep local copies of approximately 170 GB of OneDrive images.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection so OneDrive can accurately update your file statuses before changing storage settings.
Enable OneDrive Files On-Demand to Save Space
Use the Files On-Demand feature to keep files in the cloud (online-only) and access them without taking up storage space on your computer.
Files On-Demand is the best way to handle large amounts of data without filling up your local drive. It allows you to see all your files in File Explorer, but they only download when you open them.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the Windows taskbar notification area, select the Help & Settings gear icon, and click Settings.
Navigate to the 'Sync and backup' tab and expand the 'Advanced settings' section.
Under Files On-Demand, select 'Free up disk space' to make your files online-only.
To access a file locally, simply double-click it in File Explorer to download and open it.
Set Specific Files to Always Keep on This Device
If you need guaranteed offline access to certain files or images, you can pin specific folders to your local drive.
Upgrade Internal Storage Capacity
If you want all files available both locally and in the cloud without relying on external drives, upgrading your internal C drive is the most reliable long-term solution.
Manage Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office and Cloud
If your hard drive is filling up quickly, consider switching to a lighter office suite. WPS Office provides a lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office, featuring built-in WPS Cloud storage so you can create, edit, and save documents online without cluttering your local hard drive.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the lightweight installer.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install WPS Office on your PC.
- 3. Use WPS Cloud: Sign in to your WPS account to automatically save files to the cloud, saving local storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I delete an online-only file from my OneDrive folder?
If you delete an online-only file from your local OneDrive folder, it will be moved to the recycle bin and deleted from the cloud across all your synced devices. To remove it locally but keep it in the cloud, right-click the file and select 'Free up space' instead.
Can I move my OneDrive folder to an external hard drive?
Yes, you can move your OneDrive folder to an external drive to save internal storage space. However, that external drive must remain continuously connected to your computer whenever OneDrive is running to prevent sync errors.
How do I know which files are taking up local hard drive space?
In File Explorer, check the Status column in your OneDrive folder. Files with a solid green circle and a white checkmark, or a white circle with a green checkmark, are stored locally on your hard drive and taking up space.
Do online-only files work without an internet connection?
No, online-only files require an active internet connection to open. When you double-click them, Windows must first download the file from the cloud to your local device before it can be viewed or edited.
