Learn · Windows PC
Back up your PC's folders to OneDrive
10 min · essential
· HomeOS can check this for you
Why this matters. If a PC dies, is stolen or gets hit by ransomware, anything that lives only on it is gone. OneDrive's folder backup keeps your Desktop, Documents and Pictures in your Microsoft account, so they're safe and on any device you sign in to. The free plan is 5 GB; Microsoft 365 Family includes 1 TB per person, which is plenty for most people.
1
Open OneDrive settings
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar (bottom right), then the gear icon, then Settings.
No cloud icon? Click Start, type OneDrive, open it and sign in with your Microsoft account.
2
Turn on folder backup
Click Sync and backup, then Manage back up. Switch on Desktop, Documents and Pictures, then click Start backup (or Save changes).
OneDrive › Settings › Sync and backup
— ☐ ✕
Back up important PC folders to OneDrive
All three on
Folders
Desktop
Documents
Pictures
3
Know how to get files back
Deleted files sit in the OneDrive recycle bin at onedrive.com for 30 days. With Microsoft 365, OneDrive can also watch for ransomware and roll your whole OneDrive back to an earlier point within the last 30 days. Without a subscription, you get your first ransomware recovery free.
Check your understanding
If you delete a file on your PC after turning this on, is it gone forever?
No. It goes to the OneDrive recycle bin online, where you can restore it for 30 days.
Want a checklist that tracks this for your whole family? Sign in to HomeOS.
Checked against:
Microsoft: Back up your folders with OneDrive · Microsoft: Ransomware detection and recovering your files
· last reviewed 2026-09