What the OneDrive icons mean

Cloud, green tick, blue arrows and red X, explained, plus how to save space.

Updated September 21, 2026

  • Cloud outline. The file is online only. It takes no space on your computer and downloads when you open it.
  • Green tick. The file is downloaded to this computer.
  • Solid green circle with a tick. The file is set to always stay on this computer.
  • Blue arrows. The file is syncing right now.
  • Red X. There is a sync error. Select the OneDrive cloud icon near the clock to see what is wrong.

Save space

Right-click a file or folder and choose Free up space to make it online only. Choose Always keep on this device for files you need when you are offline.

Careful

Online-only files cannot be opened without an internet connection.