Working offline with OneDrive - Microsoft Support (2024)

The OneDrive app for Windows

1. Install the Windows version of the OneDrive sync app.

2. Select the Start button, search for OneDrive, and then open it.

3. When OneDrive Setup starts, enter your work or school account, and then select Sign in.

Note:If you already had an account signed-in to OneDrive and you want to add another account, select the OneDrive cloud icon in the Windows taskbar notification area, select More > Settings > Account > Add an account, and then sign in.

Important PC Folders (auto backup)

You can backup important computer files on OneDrive like your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures files.

1. Open OneDrive settings (select the OneDrive cloud iconin your notification area, and then select the OneDrive Help and Settings icon thenSettings.)

2. Go to theSync and back uptab.

3. SelectManage Back up.

Turn on Files On-Demand

OneDrive allows you to save space on your device by making files online only. However, for key files, turn on Files On-Demand to keep files on your hard drive and use offline (it will sync when you are back online).

1. Open OneDrive settings (select the OneDrive cloud iconin your notification area, and then select the OneDrive Help and Settings icon thenSettings.)

2. Go to theSync and back uptab and expand theAdvanced settings.

3. Under Files On-Demand, select eitherFree up disk space orDownload all files.

In File Explorer, you can mark a file or folder for offline use or as online-only by right-clicking the item and select Always keep on this device or Free up space.

The OneDrive app for Mac

1. Install OneDrive for Mac.

   Important:If you're using the OneDrive Mac Store app, uninstall it before installing the latest build of the OneDrive desktop app.

2. Start OneDrive by pressing cmd+ Space to launch a Spotlight query and type OneDrive. This starts OneDrive Setup.

3. Enter your work or school account and then select Sign in.

Important PC Folders (auto backup)

You can backup important computer files on OneDrive like your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures files.

1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon up in your Menu bar, click the three dots to open the menu, and selectPreferences.

2. Go to theBackuptab.

3. SelectManage Back up.

Turn on Files On-Demand

OneDrive allows you to save space on your device by making files online only. However, for key files, turn on Files On-Demand to keep files on your hard drive and use offline (it will sync when you are back online).

1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon up in your Menu bar, click the three dots to open the menu, and selectPreferences.

2. Go to thePreferencestab.

3. Under Files On-Demand, select eitherDownload files as you use themorDownload all files now.

In Finder, you can mark a file or folder for offline use or as online-only by right-clicking the item and select Always keep on this device or Free up space.