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How to delete local copies of OneDrive files without deleting them

Previously we showed you how to use OneDrive to access all your Windows files How to access Windows 10 files from anywhere How to access Windows 10 files from anywhere If you just need to access files and folders, there is a solution that is frequently overlooked. :OneDrive. Read More .

Files On-Demand is a new feature in Windows 10 Fall Creators Update 9 New Settings Features in Windows 10 Fall Creators Update 9 New Settings Features in Windows 10 Fall Creators Update Does the Settings app seem to change every time you use it? We'll show you the most important features you may have missed since the last Windows 10 update! Read more . Lets you decide how you want to access files in your OneDrive account.

Your options are:

  • Files online only: These files do not take up space on your machine. You can only access them when you have an internet connection. They are marked with a cloud icon.
  • Locally available files: These are previous online files that you downloaded to your machine. They are shown with a green tick in a white circle.
  • Files always available: These files are downloaded to your computer immediately after they are created and are available at all times. They use a white tick in a green circle..

How to delete local copies of OneDrive files without deleting them

If you want to remove local copies of OneDrive files without deleting them, you have two options. It depends on whether you start with always available files or locally available files.

How to convert online files to local files

  1. Open the OneDrive folder on your Windows computer.
  2. Right-click on the file in question.
  3. Remove the checkmark next to Always keep on this device.

How to delete local copies of OneDrive files without deleting them

How to convert local files to online files

  1. Open the OneDrive folder on your Windows computer.
  2. Right-click on the file in question.
  3. Click Clear Space.

How to delete local copies of OneDrive files without deleting them

The second method is the only process that will save space. If you want to convert an always-available file to an online-only file, follow the two sets of instructions consecutively.

Do you manage your OneDrive files with the methods we explained? Let us know in the comments below.