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Before you start
- A cloud account you own, if you want to practise
- A harmless file rather than an important original
A clear way through this guide.
We’ll show you one step at a time. When you’re ready, press Done — next step. You can go back or take a break whenever you like.
5 steps · Your own pace
Understand cloud storage before using it
Step 1 of 5: Find the storage service
Identify the actual service, such as OneDrive, Google Drive or iCloud Drive. Your email account and file storage may share a quota. Open its official app or website, rather than a link in an unexpected storage-warning email.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 2 of 5: Check where a file is stored
Look at its folder and availability indicator. In OneDrive on Windows, a cloud icon marks an online-only file; a filled green circle marks a file kept on the device. Other services use different indicators.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 3 of 5: Prepare files needed offline
Use the service’s download or keep-offline option for files you need without internet. Let the download finish and check available device space. Seeing a filename alone does not always mean its contents are stored locally.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 4 of 5: Understand changes and deletion
Renaming, editing or deleting synchronised files can affect the online copy and other devices. To remove only a downloaded OneDrive copy, use Free up space rather than Delete. Read the confirmation carefully.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 5 of 5: Keep a separate important copy
For valuable documents or photos, maintain a supported backup or another independent copy. Check recovery and storage limits. If sharing a file, review the link’s audience instead of assuming only your recipient can open it.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Take your time. Next marks this step done.
You’ve finished this guide.
Every step is complete. You can come back and practise again whenever you like.
Your small practice task.
Check whether one harmless file is online-only or available offline.
Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.
A common question.
Can cloud files disappear if I stop paying?
Terms differ. Check the provider’s storage and retention rules, keep within its limits and export important files before changing plans.
Official help, if you need it.
These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.