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Forum Discussion

dturnidge's avatar
dturnidge
Helpful | Level 6
2 years ago

New computer - messed up already

I got a new computer - yea! I just wanted to install Dropbox but only have one folder and contents showing. 

 

What I got was an installation that went directly to Dropbox on the web. I think I totally screwed up...

 

So, I would like to delete everything re: Dropbox on the new computer (without screwing anything else up) and install Dropbox on my computer with the full Dropbox directory - but with nothing actually stored on my new computer - until I click on them to download the contents.

 

The computer is an HP Envy. Hope you have enough to give me direction. Thank you in advance!!

desktop
Install
Setting up the apps
sync
  • dturnidge's avatar
    dturnidge
    2 years ago

    I think in all the permutations, I created another account... I have uninstalled and appear to have been able to log in with the "correct" profile and password. I "think" I have it installed correctly... 

  • Nancy's avatar
    Nancy
    Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff
    2 years ago

    Hi dturnidge! Thanks for posting on the Community. 

     

    Can you please clarify what you mean when saying that what you got was an installation that went directly to Dropbox on the web? Can you send me a screenshot of what you’re seeing exactly? 

     

    Also, if I got this right, you’d like to install the Dropbox app on your device, log in, but not have your files sync locally and take up hard drive, correct?

     

    If yes, then you can install the Dropbox app from this link, sign in, and then set your files to sync as online-only. 

     

    Let me know, if this helps at all.

    • dturnidge's avatar
      dturnidge
      Helpful | Level 6
      2 years ago

      https://www.dropbox.com/home - that's the link.

       

      I already created a "partial" dropbox folder in attempting to use one folder. Bad mistake.

       

      Now I can't get rid of the created folder - so, how can I download ALL the REST of dropbox but leave everything online instead of on my computer? 

       

      BTW this is a Win 11 system (I'm new to 11)

      • Megan's avatar
        Megan
        Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff
        2 years ago

        Hi dturnidge, did you manually create the folder, prior to the app's installation?

         

        Here's what I suggest for a clean installation process: 

         

        You should start by uninstalling Dropbox from your device. Once that's done, you can go ahead and delete the Dropbox folder the app made.

         

        Then you can re-install the app using this link. 

         

        Now, during the installation process, you will see the advanced settings. If you click there, you should be asked how you'd like to sync your files. You can then choose to have your files online-only. 

         

        Can you give this a go, and share your updates with me? 

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