OneDrive Files On-Demand
Use Files On-Demand to quickly free up storage space on your device while still keeping everything accessible in OneDrive. As we wrap up the year, take a few minutes to review what you truly need to stay available offline and set the rest to online-only.
Windows
Note: Settings apply per device—repeat on each computer you use.
- Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the notification area (next to the clock at the right end of the Taskbar; if it’s hidden, use the chevron icon).
- Select Help & Settings (gear icon) > Settings.
- Go to Sync and back up > Advanced settings.
- Under Files On-Demand, click the Free up disk space button.
macOS
- Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the menu bar.
- Select More (ellipsis icon) > Preferences.
- Go to the Preferences tab.
- Under Files On-Demand (Advanced), click the Download files as you use them (recommended) button.
File Status Icons (What to Keep vs. Clear)
The icons next to synced files in File Explorer and Finder indicate their status:
- Blue cloud (Online-only)
Stored in OneDrive, not on your device—best for archiving.
- Green circle with check (Locally available)
Downloads when opened—can be set back to online-only to save space.
- Solid green circle (Always keep on this device)
Always available offline—review and limit to essentials only.
A quick clean-up can free up significant space and help your device run smoothly into the new year.
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