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Fix IDrive Backup Problems Caused by OneDrive Files On-Demand
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where IDrive backup software fails to back up OneDrive files because they are stored only in the cloud via the Files On-Demand feature.
- Product
- IDrive and Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to back up local OneDrive sync folders using IDrive without realizing the files are virtually hosted in the cloud rather than stored on the local disk.
- Observed behavior
- IDrive skips or fails to back up the OneDrive files because it cannot access data that is only stored in the cloud and not physically downloaded to the local hard drive.
Ensure your computer has an active internet connection to download the required cloud files, and verify that your local hard drive has enough free storage space to accommodate the data you plan to make available offline.
Keep OneDrive Files on the Device Locally
Force OneDrive to download physical copies of your files to your local drive so IDrive can successfully read and back them up.
In current versions of Windows, OneDrive enables 'Files On-Demand' by default. This saves disk space by keeping files in the cloud until you open them. Since third-party backup tools like IDrive rely on reading physical files on your hard drive, they cannot back up these cloud-only shortcuts. You must instruct OneDrive to permanently store these files on your local device.
Launch File Explorer on your Windows PC and navigate to your main OneDrive folder.
Locate the specific files or entire folders that you want to include in your IDrive backup routine.
Right-click the selected files or folders and click on 'Always keep on this device' from the context menu.
Wait for the blue cloud icon next to the files to change into a solid green circle with a white checkmark, indicating the download is complete.
Open the IDrive application and manually start your backup job. The files will now be successfully copied.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Management and Backup
If managing third-party backups and OneDrive synchronization settings is becoming frustrating, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides an all-in-one productivity suite with built-in WPS Cloud integration, ensuring your local documents are automatically and safely backed up without complex configuration.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the setup file and follow the brief on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- 3. Enable Cloud Backup: Sign in to your free WPS account within the app to activate WPS Cloud and start syncing your documents automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does IDrive skip my OneDrive files during backup?
IDrive skips OneDrive files if the 'Files On-Demand' feature is active. This feature stores your files on Microsoft's servers to save local space, meaning the files are not actually present on your hard drive for IDrive to scan and copy.
How do I know if a OneDrive file is stored locally or only in the cloud?
Open File Explorer and check the Status column next to your files. A blue cloud icon means the file is online-only. A green checkmark means the file is physically stored on your local device.
Can I completely disable Files On-Demand in OneDrive?
In recent Windows and OneDrive updates, Files On-Demand is integrated by default, and the global toggle to disable it has been removed in some versions. You must manage this manually by selecting 'Always keep on this device' for the folders you want available offline.
