Microsoft Word will now save documents in the cloud by default and allow you to view it anywhere. This aspect is useful in avoiding the loss of data. Nevertheless, a lot of users would rather have files stored locally due to privacy or control so with Word you can turn the auto-save feature off, which makes the files stay on your computer and prevents automatic updates to servers.

Highlights:

• Microsoft Word auto-save is enabled by default.
• Files are automatically uploaded to OneDrive when auto-save is on.
• Users can disable Microsoft Word auto-save in settings.
• Turning off auto-save keeps documents stored locally.
• Disabling auto-save helps users maintain file privacy.

The Auto-save feature of Microsoft Word will save documents against accidental loss, but not all users will like cloud storage. Information that is sensitive in nature is usually desired to be stored locally by people handling such information. Auto-save can be switched off in the File menu. This allows files to be stored on your computer and you have complete control over document locations.  

In order to disable auto-save, open a document and disengage the toggle at the upper-left corner. This prevents automatic upload to OneDrive. You can also choose to save the default location to your computer as opposed to the cloud. Turning off auto-save will allow working with files on the local drive but with an option to have cloud storage as well.  

Although automatic saving is already disabled, it is still advisable to save the data manually to avoid losing it. Manual saves provide you with the power to organize files. It works best in an offline environment or unfavorable internet connectivity. Auto-save can still be good even to cloud users, yet disabling it can give them an additional degree of privacy and even a degree of freedom when necessary.