How to reduce your cloud storage (2024)

Before you start deleting files, note that some files either shouldn't, or don't need to be backed up in OneDrive.

Outlook data files

Outlook data files are not suitable for storing in your OneDrive because they are often held open by the app, and trying to sync them can slow down your computer and block sync.Learn howto remove an Outlook .pst data file from OneDrive.

Compressed archives

Compressed files such as 7Z, RAR, TAR and ZIP can take up less space than their contents, but you will only save space if you have also removed the original contents. If you have both original files and a compressed archive, consider deleting one or the other.

Downloads

Every time you download a file from the internet, it is stored on your computer. Unless you specify a different location, it will be stored in yourDownloadsfolder. Some files can be safely removed because they can be easily found again from the download source, for example application installation and set up files.

Other files

If you don't want to include all of your files and folders in your OneDrive, you can move the folders to a location out of your OneDrive folder.

  1. OpenFile ExplorerorFinder.

  2. Select the files or folder you wish to move.

  3. Drag the selection to its new folder and release.

Notes:

  • Take your time moving files to preventreleasing in the wrong place. PressCTRL+Zto undo the last file move.

  • If you move a file, the app associated with it may not be able to find it if it's in yourRecentlist.

  • Files moved out from OneDrive arenotbacked up or protected. If your computer fails, content may be irretrievably lost. Files removed from OneDrive areheld in your OneDrive Recycle Bin for upto 30 days -learn how to restore them.

Mobile

Itcan be too easy to just back up every photo, screenshot, messaging image and social media meme, but backing up everything without a little cleaning now and then can lead to huge amounts of wasted space.

Tips:

  • Consider if you need to include all imagesin your Android camera roll backup.Learn more.

  • Have a monthly purge of your backed up camera roll - useOneDrive.com photoviewer, not the camera roll on your mobile.

How to reduce your cloud storage (2024)
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