Dropbox for Windows update: an overview

Updated Jul 23, 2025

In this article

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This article describes an update available on all Dropbox plans. 

The Dropbox for Windows update is focused on the changes introduced with Microsoft’s new sync API called cloud files. This update applies to Windows 11 (23H2 and above) and Windows 10 (22H2 and above) devices. To properly integrate with Windows going forward, the Dropbox sync engine was revamped to use the cloud files API.


Dropbox is constantly working to preserve the reliability and quality of the sync experience. The cloud files API is an update to previous OS integrations, making sync features like placeholders easier to maintain and more secure.

How to get the Dropbox for Windows update

If you’re eligible for this update, migration will begin automatically. Your content won’t be affected during this process.

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Notes:

  • If you have a lot of files, this migration may take some time to complete.
  • Access to your Dropbox content won’t be disrupted during migration.

Windows users with the following configurations won’t be migrated at this time:

  • Accounts with 500k or more files
  • Accounts running the legacy or non-updated version of Dropbox Backup

These users will continue with their existing Dropbox experience.
 

How to opt out of the Dropbox for Windows update

If you don’t want to use the Dropbox for Windows update at this time, you can opt out through your Advanced settings page. To do this:

  1. Log out of the Dropbox desktop app.
  2. Log back into the Dropbox desktop app.
  3. Click Open Dropbox.
  4. Make your selections on the onboarding screens.
  5. When the setup is finished, click Advanced settings from the final screen.
  6. Check the Opt out checkbox under Dropbox for Windows updates.
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