MC922630 – (Updated) Microsoft OneDrive: We will remove the “EnableHoldTheFile” group policy

Product:

Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 suite, OneDrive, SharePoint

Platform:

Mac, Online, US Instances, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Admin impact, Feature update, Updated message, User impact

Links:

429875

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft will remove the "EnableHoldTheFile" group policy for OneDrive in May 2025. Users will be able to choose how to handle file conflicts. Admins should review configurations and notify users. No admin action is required. More details are available on the Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 429875.

Details:
Updated April 3, 2025: We have updated the rollout timeline below. We are now one month away from this change taking effect.
We will remove the EnableHoldTheFile group policy for Microsoft OneDrive from the Microsoft 365 admin center.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 429875.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): We will begin rolling out early May 2025 (previously early April) and expect to complete by late May 2025 (previously late April).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2024-11-01

updated:
2025-04-04

Task Type

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MS How does it affect me

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summary for non-techies**

Starting in May 2025, Microsoft will remove the "EnableHoldTheFile" setting in OneDrive, prompting users to decide how to handle file conflicts instead of automatically creating separate copies, thereby reducing duplicate files and simplifying document management.

Direct effects for Operations**

File Conflict Management
Users will have to manually manage file conflicts instead of merging changes directly, leading to potential confusion and loss of productivity.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

User Experience
Users may experience frustration due to the increased number of file copies created during conflicts, impacting their workflow and efficiency.
   - roles: End Users, Project Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Documentation and Training Needs
Organizations may need to update training materials and documentation to reflect the new conflict resolution process, requiring additional resources.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, IT Administrators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Increased Support Requests
IT support may see an increase in requests related to file conflicts and resolution, straining resources and response times.
   - roles: IT Support, Help Desk Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Change Management
Without proper communication, users may be unprepared for the change, leading to disruptions in their daily tasks and potential data loss.
   - roles: End Users, Change Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Improved User Experience in File Conflict Management
With the removal of the 'EnableHoldTheFile' policy, users will have the ability to choose how to handle file conflicts directly, rather than having OneDrive create multiple copies. This can significantly enhance user experience by reducing confusion and allowing users to manage their files more effectively.
   - next-steps: Communicate the changes to users, providing training on how to handle file conflicts post-update. Update internal documentation to reflect the new conflict management process.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Reduction of Storage Overhead
By allowing users to manage file conflicts rather than creating copies automatically, the organization can reduce unnecessary storage usage. This can lead to cost savings on storage solutions, especially for organizations with a large number of files.
   - next-steps: Analyze current storage usage related to file conflicts and project potential savings post-update. Consider adjusting storage plans based on new usage patterns.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Finance Managers, Operations Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Streamlined IT Support Operations
The change will likely reduce the number of support tickets related to file conflicts, as users will have a clearer process for managing conflicts themselves. This can free up IT resources to focus on more critical issues.
   - next-steps: Monitor support ticket trends related to file conflicts before and after the change. Train IT staff on the new processes to ensure they can assist users effectively with any new questions.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Help Desk Managers, IT Operations Managers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/sharepoint/use-group-policy#allow-users-to-choose-how-to-handle-office-file-sync-conflicts, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=429875

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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