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Force iCloud to store files locally

I chose Optimize storage when I transferred files to my new MacBook Pro. As a result, I don't have folders and files stored on my hard drive. I want this as I don't always have access to the internet. Is there a way to get all my files and folders to store locally now that I've stored them on iCloud?

MacBook

Posted on Aug 24, 2020 1:20 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Aug 24, 2020 1:41 PM

Turn off the Optimize Storage option. Apple menu > System Preferences > Apple ID > Optimize Mac Storage.


Note that even when that option is turned on, it is likely that many (or maybe all) of your documents still have a local copy on your Mac unless it is extremely low on space. See the following from Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support

If you need more space on your device, iCloud Drive can help. On your Mac, choose Apple menu  > System Preferences. Click Apple ID, then click iCloud. On macOS Mojave or earlier, choose Apple menu  > System Preferences, then click iCloud. Turn on Optimize Mac Storage. Then your Mac keeps all of your recent files on your computer, but keeps your older ones only in iCloud, ready for you to download when you need them again.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 24, 2020 1:41 PM in response to markccccc

Turn off the Optimize Storage option. Apple menu > System Preferences > Apple ID > Optimize Mac Storage.


Note that even when that option is turned on, it is likely that many (or maybe all) of your documents still have a local copy on your Mac unless it is extremely low on space. See the following from Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support

If you need more space on your device, iCloud Drive can help. On your Mac, choose Apple menu  > System Preferences. Click Apple ID, then click iCloud. On macOS Mojave or earlier, choose Apple menu  > System Preferences, then click iCloud. Turn on Optimize Mac Storage. Then your Mac keeps all of your recent files on your computer, but keeps your older ones only in iCloud, ready for you to download when you need them again.

Force iCloud to store files locally

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