Sync Selected SharePoint Files with OneDrive Files On-Demand
Question details
The user wants to sync only selected files or the files shown in a filtered SharePoint document library view.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive and SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- A user wants to access specific SharePoint library files locally without downloading unrelated files.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive cannot use a filtered SharePoint view to select individual files for sync. A synced library normally exposes its contents, though Files On-Demand can keep files online-only.
Make sure you have access to the SharePoint document library and are signed in to the OneDrive sync app with the appropriate account. Check that Files On-Demand is available and enabled in your OneDrive settings.
Keep Selected SharePoint Files Offline with Files On-Demand
Use this workaround to reduce local storage use while keeping the files you need available offline.
This does not sync a filtered SharePoint view or hide unrelated files from the synced library. Online-only files remain visible but generally require an internet connection to open.
Open the document library in SharePoint and select Sync. If prompted, allow the OneDrive app to open and complete setup.
Select the OneDrive cloud icon, open Settings, and check the Files On-Demand options. Settings and labels can vary by operating system and OneDrive version.
Open the synced library in File Explorer or Finder, select files or folders you do not need offline, right-click them, and choose Free up space.
In the synced library, right-click each file or folder you need and select Always keep on this device. Wait for the download to complete before going offline.
Work with Downloaded SharePoint Documents in WPS Office
WPS Office is a free, lightweight Office alternative with a familiar interface and support for common Microsoft Office formats, making it easier to migrate your document workflow. It does not change OneDrive sync behavior or sync filtered SharePoint views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can OneDrive sync only the files in a filtered SharePoint view?
No. A SharePoint view filter does not determine which individual files OneDrive syncs. Use Files On-Demand to control which files take up local storage instead.
How do I make a SharePoint file available offline?
In File Explorer or Finder, open the synced library, right-click the file, and select Always keep on this device. Wait for the download to finish before disconnecting.
Will online-only files disappear from the synced library?
No. Files marked with Free up space remain visible in the synced library, but you generally need an internet connection to open them.
Can I choose specific folders instead of individual files?
OneDrive may offer a Choose folders option for a synced library, depending on your setup and organization policies. This selects folders, not the individual files shown in a filtered SharePoint view.
