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How to stop Dropbox creating folders for backup

jerry1995

For some time, every time I create a new file on my MacBook using Microsoft software that I save to my Dropbox, the computer automatically creates the file (e.g. a document) and a separate folder with a backup copy of the file created. It's annoying, creates clutter, and probably uses extra memory.

How can I stop this so I can just save one copy of the file? It used to work like that for a long time. The other question is whether there is a way to delete the unnecessary backup files automatically. Thank you!

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Megan

Hi @TS13, can you also clarify the Dropbox version you're using on your end, just to ensure you're not using a Beta version?

You can find this by locating your Dropbox icon on the menu bar, next to your WiFi and hovering your mouse there.

If you could also attach a few screenshots of an example duplicated folder, that'd be amazing, so that we can have a visual too.

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Hannah

Hey @jerry1995, thanks for reaching out to the Dropbox Community.

Dropbox doesn't really have the ability to create files in other locations of your computer.

If you close the Dropbox app completely, does the issue persist?

Keep me posted!

jerry1995

thanks Hannah. Well, when I use "Save As", say, in Microsoft Word, and specify my dropbox folder as the place to save the file, I then see both the file I created and a separate folder that contains a backup copy of the same file. Something is causing that. Thanks. Tom

Megan

Hi @jerry1995, sorry to jump in here!

Could you send me a screenshot, in order to have a visual of this too?

TS13

i have the same problem. A fix would help.

Megan

Hey there, @TS13, let's jump right into this!

Could you just confirm your device's exact OS version and the version and status of the desktop app as shown in your system tray?

When did you notice this behavior?

Keep me posted, and we'll take it from there!

TS13

Mac OS Monterey Version 12.6

Dropbox Status says "Your files are up to date".

Megan

Hi @TS13, can you also clarify the Dropbox version you're using on your end, just to ensure you're not using a Beta version?

You can find this by locating your Dropbox icon on the menu bar, next to your WiFi and hovering your mouse there.

If you could also attach a few screenshots of an example duplicated folder, that'd be amazing, so that we can have a visual too.

TS13

Screenshot 2023-10-26 at 14.08.49.png

Megan

Hi @TS13, it seems you're two versions behind the latest update.

Would you mind updating to our latest version that you can find here, and letting me know more?

paulistathiago

I had the same problem and I have not seem no solution here. I realized that the causes were the Microsoft Office settings.

Step 1 - Go to Main and select Preferences
Step 2 - Select Save Botton that shows in pop-up preferences

Step 3 - Uncheck "Create a backup allways" checkbox (maybe the name is another, because I use a Portuguese Language and here is look like that.

And now this solve for me!!!