Format Hard Disk - What Happens To Files On OneDrive?

LGLDSR73 145 Reputation points
2025-08-06T17:04:28.49+00:00

'RECOVERY AND BACKUP' is an inappropriate choice, but OneDrive was not an option.

As you know, if you delete a file on the local system, it will be deleted on OneDrive.

If I have to format my local drive does OneDrive purge its contents since the files on the local machine are gone?

Thank you1

LGLDSR73

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Recovery and backup
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  1. David-M 80,475 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-06T17:42:21.37+00:00

    Hi. I'm David, and I'm happy to help you.


    OneDrive syncs files between your local device and the cloud. But it doesn't blindly delete files from the cloud just because your local drive is formatted. Here's what happens:

    Before formatting: If you delete a file locally while OneDrive is running, it will sync that deletion to the cloud.

    During formatting: If you wipe your drive without deleting the files first, OneDrive won't be running, so it won't have a chance to sync any deletions.

    After formatting: When you reinstall OneDrive and sign in again, it will treat your device as a new sync target. It will either:

    • Download your files from the cloud back to your device, or
    • Use Files On-Demand, displaying placeholders locally and downloading files only when needed.

    Feel free to ask back any questions.

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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