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If I delete a file on my internal drive, is that file deleted in iCloud also?

In order to free up space on my internal drive, I want to be able to delete some valuable files there - but have them remain SAVED in iCloud. If I delete a valuable file on my internal drive, is that file automatically deleted also in iCloud??

Posted on Dec 18, 2021 3:51 PM

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Posted on Dec 18, 2021 5:29 PM

Make a backup on an external drive of the files you want to keep. iCloud is not a computer backup scheme.

Back up your Mac with Time Machine - Apple Support


2 replies

Dec 18, 2021 5:27 PM in response to chrisfromgallup

iCloud syncs everything in the iCloud Drive folder, visible in Finder Sidebar.


If you have chosen the option to sync your desktop and Documents folder these locations will be synced also.


Any edit, change, addition or deletion on your device (not specified) will also occur on your iCloud space.


If the files you wish to delete are valuable either leave them on iCloud (best option) or back them up at least TWICE to external drives.

If I delete a file on my internal drive, is that file deleted in iCloud also?

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