How do I delete files from iCloud but NOT from my Macbook?

Did you try this - Copy the files from iCloud Drive to a folder other than Documents and the Desktop. Then turn off syncing.

I was able to back up my files to my external hard-drive, then delete them from my computer (temporarily), turn off iCloud sync for Documents and Desktop, and then copy the files back to from the external hard drive. I think that is the ONLY way to prevent iCloud from storing your documents files.

I'm not sure if you have resolved this issue yet, but I just simply add a .nosync to the end of any folders/files I don't want synced. It then removes them from iCloud.

Go to System Preferences/iCloud/iCloud Drive/Options and turn off Documents and Desktop syncing. Check your Documents and Desktop to make sure all your files are there. If you have all your files, you can delete them from iCloud. If you are missing some, go to Finder, access iCloud Drive in the Sidebar, and copy the missing files to your computer. You can then delete from iCloud.

Copy the files from iCloud Drive to a folder other than Documents and the Desktop. Then turn off syncing.

That will work but why should a user risk their files? I didn't ask for iCloud to sync and store my desktop and I shouldn't have to find a workaround in order to store things on my desktop without Apple copying them without my permission. Not impressed.

Yep. I'd had the same issue but this worked beautifully. I was concerned because I couldn't see the "system" folders for Desktop (local) and Documents (local) but they reappeared after I unsynced to iCloud.

Thank you, MMM

Hi, by entering system preferences, open up iCloud and click on 'options' on iCloud Drive, you can disable iCloud syncing with Documents and Desktop. My English isn't the best, but hopefully, I helped you.

Wow! This is like a painful thread to read. You are very out of touch with this issue. I don't think you understand the discussion AT ALL! Huey wants to keep his files on HIS computer! That's ummm, pretty normal. I think we all like the idea of having access to files stored locally right on our very own computer. The whole iCloud thing is completely backward from the logical way it should run. And Huey if you are reading this I think the obvious reason is $$$$ Apple wants you (us) to take the easy path to solve your (our) frustrations and have you (us) toss more money at them. They don't want to give you any easy way of clearing space in your iCloud storage. They want you to upgrade. That's why the #$%^&s hold our local data hostage. The whole iCloud thing is completly unethical. My next computer will probably be a Pppp. No. No it won't. But I can't wait to figure out a way to escape this iCloud prison!

And if I don't have the space on my hard drive?

This is bull ****

Hey, currently dealing with the same problem... did you find a solution without losing your files? Super frustrated college student trying to work on homework.

If you turn off Documents and Desktop syncing it says it will delete all files on your desktop and leave them on iCloud. Completely backwards. Driving me crazy

Sweet! Seems like a tid bit Apple would rather we didn't know. Would rather we just keep toosing more $ at iCloud upgrades. Thanks a ton!

So in order to stop iCloud synching I have to erase the desktop on my computer first? That isn't very costumer friendly to erase your computer in order to stop something. There must be an easier and less scary way to stop synching.

In any case, the other issue is every time I update my calendar it gets erased when I try to open a calendar archive. I save the archive from another computer, transfer to my MacBook Pro, and then open it. It gives me 2 choices one is restore and one is cancel. If I cancel it opens with no added info (like what to do on a certain date), if I select restore, I end up with no added info??

Any suggestions are appreciated. I usually don't get frustrated with Apple but this iCloud issue really bothers me. It appears to me to be a purposeful road block to making what should be a simple change for leaving iCloud into an obstacle so you will stay with iCloud. I tried it, it doesn't work for me. There should be an easier way to stop the service.

Peace, Huey

Films By Huey wrote:

So in order to stop iCloud synching I have to erase the desktop on my computer first?

Why on earth would you do that, the files in iCloud will stay there, you can move them back whenever you want.