How to Install Microsoft Office 2024 Without OneDrive
Question details
The user wants to install Microsoft Office Family 2024 on Windows 11 and save files strictly locally, bypassing or removing the default OneDrive cloud integration.

- Product
- Microsoft Office Family 2024
- Device & OS
- Windows 11
- Scenario
- Installing Office locally without being forced to use cloud sync services for file saving.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft Office promotes and integrates OneDrive during installation by default, making it unclear how to opt out and keep files entirely on the local hard drive.
Ensure you have the login credentials for the Microsoft account used to purchase Office Family 2024, and verify that any previous Office versions have been uninstalled to prevent conflicts.
Install Office 2024 and Disconnect OneDrive Services
This is the recommended method to install Office and manually remove OneDrive from your connected services, allowing you to save files locally.
OneDrive is often included or heavily promoted during the Microsoft Office installation process, but its use is entirely optional. You can safely install the software and then unlink the cloud service directly from the Office application settings.
Navigate to https://account.microsoft.com/services/ in your web browser and sign in using the Microsoft account associated with your Office Family 2024 purchase. Locate your Office 2024 product and click 'Install' to download the setup file.
Open the downloaded installer file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation on your Windows 11 computer.
Launch any Office application, such as Word or Excel. When prompted, sign in with your Microsoft account to activate the software.
In the Office application, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, then select 'Account' from the bottom-left menu. Under the 'Connected Services' section, locate OneDrive, click on it, and select 'Remove' to unlink it from your Office suite.

Try WPS Office for a Local, Cloud-Free Experience
If you prefer a lightweight office suite that respects your local storage preferences without forcing cloud installations, WPS Office is an excellent alternative. It offers a seamless, offline-friendly experience while maintaining robust compatibility with all standard document formats.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for Windows.
- 2. Install quickly and easily: Run the lightweight setup file to install the suite in just a few minutes without mandatory cloud add-ons.
- 3. Save files locally: Open WPS Writer, Spreadsheet, or Presentation and enjoy saving all your documents directly to your local hard drive.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely uninstall OneDrive from Windows 11 without affecting Office?
Yes. Office 2024 applications will continue to function normally for local file creation and editing even if you completely uninstall the OneDrive application from your Windows 11 system.
Will removing OneDrive from Connected Services delete my local files?
No, removing OneDrive from the Connected Services menu in Office only severs the link between the application and your cloud storage. Your locally saved files remain completely safe and untouched on your hard drive.
Do I need an internet connection to install Office 2024 if I only want local files?
Yes, an internet connection is required to download the initial installer and to sign in for software activation. Once activated, you can use the software offline and save files locally.




