Turning off Optimise Mac Storage without losing files

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Level 1

8 points

Turning off Optimise Mac Storage without losing files

Hi, I have just got a new Macbook pro 13". I have backed up my old Macbook air via time machine but the settings on the old Mac had Optimise Mac Storage on, which I didn't realise at the time. The time machine restore on the new laptop has carried over the Optimise Mac Storage setting. I want to turn this off on my new Pro because I want to have access to documents without internet now that I have more space. However, I am afraid if I turn it off I will lose files?

Any recommendations or help would be greatly appreciated.

Posted on Jul 5, 2020 8:53 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Axel Foley

Level 10

150,978 points

Jul 6, 2020 7:42 AM in response to ciaran177

You will NOT lose your files if you turn OFF Optimize Mac Storage. As you already know, this feature stores your documents in iCloud / iCloud Drive while only keeping the filename on your MacBook Pro. The feature will download the document(s)/File(s) to your MacBook Pro as you need.

You have more space now on your new MacBook Pro and therefore would like to have ready access to your files even when you are not connected to a WiFi Network. You can turn the Optimize Mac Storage feature to OFF and it will download all your documents to your new MacBook Pro AND those documents will also continue to remain on iCloud to sync with your other devices as it always was.

Axel F.

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