Why the Microsoft Office 15 Folder Keeps Returning & How to Save Locally
Question details
The user wants to permanently delete the returning Microsoft Office 15 folder and configure Office 2021 to save files locally without using OneDrive or Microsoft cloud storage.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2021
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to remove Click-to-Run system folders and disable Microsoft cloud storage to use Office applications entirely offline.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft Office 15 folder automatically recreates itself after being deleted, and OneDrive continues to appear as a default save option in the software.
Before attempting to modify system directories, verify whether your Office installation is a Click-to-Run version by navigating to File > Account within any Office application and checking the 'About' section.
Keep the Office 15 Folder and Change Default Save Location
The Office 15 folder is essential for Click-to-Run services and cannot be permanently deleted. Instead of trying to remove it, you can configure Office to save files to your local drive by default.
The Microsoft Office 15 folder contains critical executable files like IntegratedOffice.exe and OfficeClickToRun.exe. Because the Click-to-Run service requires these files to operate and update your Office suite, the system will automatically rebuild the folder if you delete it.
Launch an Office application, such as Word or Excel, and click on 'File' in the top-left corner, then select 'Options' at the bottom.
In the Options dialog box, select the 'Save' tab from the left-hand navigation menu.
Check the box that says 'Save to Computer by default' and uncheck 'Show additional places for saving, even if sign-in may be required'.
Enter your preferred local folder path into the 'Default local file location' box. Also, change the 'AutoRecover file location' to a local directory on your hard drive to prevent cloud auto-saving.
Unlink or Uninstall OneDrive to Remove Cloud Integration
If OneDrive still persistently appears as a save option in Office, you can sever the cloud connection by unlinking your account or uninstalling the OneDrive app completely.
Create an Outlook Profile Without an Email Account
You can use a command-line parameter to set up Outlook entirely locally without attaching it to an email account or cloud service.
Switch to WPS Office for a Truly Local and Lightweight Experience
If you prefer a productivity suite that respects your local storage preferences without forcing background update folders like 'Office 15' or mandatory OneDrive integrations, WPS Office is the perfect solution. It is a free, lightweight alternative that gives you complete control over your files.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for Windows.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the setup file and follow the on-screen prompts to install the lightweight suite on your computer.
- 3. Save Locally by Default: Create a new document and save it directly to your local hard drive without mandatory cloud sign-in prompts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Office 15 folder exist in Office 2021?
The Office 15 folder is a standard system directory used by the Microsoft Office Click-to-Run service. Even in newer versions like Office 2021, this folder houses essential executable files required for background software updates and routine operational tasks.
Can I safely delete the Microsoft Office 15 folder?
No, it is highly discouraged to delete this folder. If you are using an Office product installed via Click-to-Run, deleting the folder removes critical service files. The system will automatically recreate the folder upon detecting that these necessary files are missing.
How can I stop Office from automatically saving to the cloud?
You can force local saving by opening an Office app and navigating to File > Options > Save. Check the box for 'Save to Computer by default' and ensure you update both the 'Default local file location' and 'AutoRecover file location' to a specific folder on your local hard drive.
How do I completely remove OneDrive from my PC?
To completely remove OneDrive, open Windows Settings, go to Apps > Apps & features, scroll down to find 'Microsoft OneDrive', and click Uninstall. This will remove the cloud service from appearing in your file explorer and Office save options.
