How to Move Documents Back to C:usersusernameDocuments from OneDrive

Introduction

Many responses suggest that Microsoft OneDrive creates backups of your files. However, this is not entirely accurate. OneDrive syncs with your computer, meaning it mirrors any changes you make on your computer to OneDrive, and vice versa. This can prove problematic when OneDrive moves your Documents folder, leading to the automatic deletion of files if deleted from OneDrive.

Moving Documents Back to Local Storage

Here’s how to move your Documents back into C:usersusernameDocuments from OneDrive and prevent it from happening again:

Step 1: Open OneDrive Folder

1. Navigate to your OneDrive folder, which is usually located at C:usersusernameOneDriveDocuments.

Step 2: Copy or Move Files

2. Select the files and folders you want to move back to your local Documents folder.

3. Right-click on the selected items and choose either Cut to move or Copy to duplicate.

4. Navigate to C:usersusernameDocuments.

5. Right-click in the folder and select Paste.

Preventing OneDrive from Moving Documents Again

To stop OneDrive from syncing your Documents folder, you can follow these settings changes:

Step 1: Pause or Stop Syncing

1. Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen.

2. Click on Settings.

3. Go to the Backup tab.

4. Click on Manage backup.

5. If Documents is checked, uncheck it to stop syncing your Documents folder.

Step 2: Unlink OneDrive (Optional)

1. Click on Account tab in the settings.

2. Click on Unlink this PC.

Step 3: Move Documents Folder Location (Optional)

1. If you want to keep using OneDrive but move your Documents folder back to the local storage:

2. Right-click on the Documents folder in C:usersusername.

3. Select Properties.

4. Go to the Location tab.

5. Click on Restore Default to point it back to the local folder.

6. Click OK and confirm any prompts.

Additional Tips

If you only want to use OneDrive for specific files, consider manually moving or copying them to the OneDrive folder instead of syncing entire folders.

Regularly check OneDrive settings to ensure it aligns with your preferences regarding file storage and syncing.

By following these steps, you should be able to move your Documents back to the local folder and prevent OneDrive from moving them again in the future.