Prerequisites / Minimum Requirements

• Windows OS and OneDrive application

End State / Outcome

• Desktop, Documents, and Pictures Folder will automatically sync to OneDrive

How to Steps

Enable OneDrive Folder Backup (Desktop, Documents, Pictures)

This guide explains how to turn on Known Folder Backup (previously called AutoSave) for your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders in OneDrive.

Before You Begin

• Ensure OneDrive is installed (it is built into Windows 10 and 11).

• Sign in with your work or personal Microsoft account.

• Make sure you have a stable internet connection.

Step 1: Open OneDrive Settings

1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of your screen).

   • If you don’t see it, click the ^ (Show hidden icons) arrow.

2. Select the gear icon (Settings).

3. Click Settings from the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Start Folder Backup

1. In the Settings window, select the Sync and backup tab.

2. Under Back up important PC folders, click Manage backup.

Step 3: Choose Folders to Back Up

1. Select the folders you want to back up:

   • Desktop

   • Documents

   • Pictures

2. Click Start backup.

OneDrive will begin syncing these folders to the cloud.

Step 4: Verify Backup Status

• Open your OneDrive folder in File Explorer.

• Confirm that Desktop, Documents, and/or Pictures now appear under your OneDrive directory.

• Look for status icons next to files:

  • Green checkmark – File is synced and available locally.

  • Cloud icon – File is stored in the cloud (downloaded when opened).

  • Blue circular arrows – File is currently syncing.

Important Notes

• If you already have folders with the same names inside your OneDrive directory, you may be prompted to merge or rename them.

• Once enabled, files saved to Desktop, Documents, or Pictures are automatically backed up to OneDrive.

• You can stop backup at any time by returning to Settings > Sync and backup > Manage backup.

Your important folders are now continuously backed up to OneDrive and available from any device where you are signed in.