Office Settings & Configuration

How to Change the Default Save As Location to Local Computer in Excel

Aamir Naveed Akram Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to set the 'Recent Files' view or their local drive as the default 'Save As' location instead of OneDrive.

How to Change the Default Save As Location to Local Computer in Excel

Product: Excel for Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Saving a new document or using the 'Save As' function in Excel.
Observed behavior: Excel automatically defaults to OneDrive as the save location due to Microsoft 365 integration, bypassing the 'Recent files' view and local computer.

Before you start

Ensure you know the folder path on your local computer where you want your files to be saved by default before modifying the Excel save settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Set Local Computer as the Default Save Location

By adjusting Excel's built-in Save options, you can bypass OneDrive and force Excel to default to your local computer when saving files.

While Microsoft 365 strongly encourages saving files to OneDrive, you can change your default settings to prioritize local saving. Note that Excel does not provide a specific setting to force the 'Recent files' list to be the default Save As screen, but defaulting to your computer achieves a similar local-first workflow.

Open Excel Options

Launch Microsoft Excel. Click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner of the screen, and then select 'Options' located at the bottom of the left-hand menu.

Navigate to Save Settings

In the Excel Options dialog box that appears, click on 'Save' in the left-hand navigation pane.

Modify Default Save Location

Under the 'Save workbooks' section, check the box that says 'Save to Computer by default'. To further prevent OneDrive from overriding your choice, uncheck the box for 'Show additional places for saving, even if sign-in may be required'.

Apply and Test Changes

Click the 'OK' button at the bottom of the dialog box to apply your new settings. The next time you use the 'Save As' function, Excel will automatically default to your designated local drive.

Set Local Computer as the Default Save Location

Recent Files View Limitation: Excel does not currently offer a built-in feature to specifically make the 'Recent files' view the default Save As screen. Enabling 'Save to Computer by default' is the recommended alternative.

Seamless Local Saving

Use WPS Office to Easily Save Files Locally

If you are frustrated by forced cloud integrations, WPS Spreadsheet provides a straightforward, local-first saving experience. You can easily manage your default save locations and keep your files securely on your own device.

1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office Free from the official website and install it on your computer.
2. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and create a new document or open your existing Excel file.
3. Save Locally with Ease: Click Menu > Save As. WPS Office naturally defaults to your local computer directories, letting you browse your recent local folders instantly without cloud interference.

Local-first saving by default without forced cloud integrationFully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) file formatsFamiliar user interface that requires zero learning curveLightweight application that runs smoothly on older devices

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel automatically select OneDrive when using Save As?

In Microsoft 365, OneDrive integration is enabled by default to encourage cloud storage, cross-device syncing, and auto-saving features. This overrides traditional local save prompts unless explicitly changed in the application's options.

Can I set the 'Recent Files' view as the exact default Save As screen?

Currently, Excel does not have a specific built-in setting to force the 'Recent files' list to appear as the default Save As screen. You can only toggle between defaulting to cloud locations (like OneDrive) or your local computer.

Does disabling 'Show additional places for saving' sign me out of Office?

No. Unchecking this option in the Save settings only removes cloud locations like OneDrive or SharePoint from the immediate Save As menu. You will remain securely signed into your Microsoft 365 account.

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