How to stop MS Word from saving doc and pdf files to the cloud

Hello Kwbcoffice,

I hope you are doing well. Let me try to help you here:

You're using Windows 10 and Office 365, and you've noticed that saving files with F12 results in delays and cloud-only access. Here's how to fix that:
1. Change Default Save Location in Word

Open Word.
Go to File > Options > Save.
Check “Save to Computer by default”.
Under Default local file location, choose a folder on your PC (e.g., C:\Documents).
If available, uncheck “AutoSave OneDrive and SharePoint Online files by default”.

2. Disable OneDrive Folder Backup

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray (bottom right corner).
Click the gear icon > Settings.
Go to the Backup tab.
Click Manage backup.
Click Stop backup for folders like Desktop, Documents, and Pictures if you don’t want them synced to OneDrive.

If you prefer not to use OneDrive at all:

Go to OneDrive Settings > Account.
Click Unlink this PC.

2.1. Turn Off AutoSave

In Word, go to File > Options > Save.
Uncheck “AutoSave OneDrive and SharePoint Online files by default”.

I notice one important information in your statement.
⚠️Windows 10 Is Out of Support 😅
Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 in October 2025. This means no more security updates or bug fixes, which can leave your system vulnerable. I recommend upgrading to Windows 11 for better performance, security, and compatibility with Office 365.

🚨 Always keep your Office, Windows, and drivers up to date. This ensures greater compatibility with MS products.
I hope I was able to help. 🤩