Files On-Demand shows cloud placeholders in Explorer. You get the filename without eating 200 GB of SSD until you open the file.
Use it well
- Right-click → Always keep on this device for offline must-haves.
- Free up space on huge folders you rarely open.
- Avoid nesting OneDrive inside OneDrive sync junctions.
If something fails
Circular sync or “processing changes” loops often mean a path too long—shorten folder names near the root.
FAQ
Work account?
Policies may force keep-online; check with IT.
Replace NAS?
For personal docs yes; for media libraries a NAS still fits better.
Updated for?
Written for current Windows 11 / recent Android; menus move—search the setting name if your build differs.
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Photo: Unsplash. Steps checked against current Windows 11 / Android settings menus; UI labels can shift slightly after OS updates.