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Always keep on this device in OnDrive

Ashish Mathur 101.8K Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2025-10-22T01:34:47.3533333+00:00

Hi,

If i select "Always keep on this device" in OnDrive, then if a file gets deleted from OneDrive online, will the file also get deleted from my hard drive?

Microsoft 365 and Office | OneDrive | For business | Windows
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Huy-K 11,950 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2025-10-22T04:02:20.53+00:00

Dear @Ashish Mathur,

Kindly refer these workaround steps:

Use File History with OneDrive (requires configuration)

  • By default, File History does not back up OneDrive folders because they are considered cloud-managed.
  • To include them:
    • Disable Files On-Demand in OneDrive settings (so all files are fully downloaded).
    • Add your OneDrive folder to a Library (e.g., Documents) so File History can back it up.
    • Connect an external drive and enable File History in Control Panel > File History.
  • Limitation: File History only backs up files that change after setup; initial backup may require manual trigger.

Create a manual copy outside OneDrive

  • Copy your OneDrive files to a folder that is not synced (e.g., D:\LocalBackup).
  • Back up that folder using File History or third-party tools.
  • This ensures OneDrive deletions won’t affect your backup.

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  1. Huy-K 11,950 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-10-22T03:10:27.78+00:00

    Dear @Ashish Mathur,

    Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Based on your description:

    All OneDrive files are stored in the cloud. The sync icons indicate the status of local copies of these online files.

    Storage Sense is a OneDrive feature designed to prevent your hard drive from becoming cluttered with temporary or unnecessary files.

    When Storage Sense is enabled:

    • Files marked as “Always keep on this device” remain on your device and cannot be removed by Storage Sense.
    • Files marked as “Available on this device” may be removed if they have not been opened within a specified period.
    • Files that have been freed up display a blue cloud icon, indicating they are available online but not stored locally.

    Here is a reference: Manage drive space with Storage Sense - Microsoft Support

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