This articles explains how to turn off iCloud Drive on Apple macOS.

Disable iCloud Drive feature while upgrading to Ventura 

On upgrading to macOS Ventura, you will be offered the option to log on to an Apple account.

If you do this, Apple offer the option to store your Desktop and Documents folders on the Apple iCloud Drive service.

Please ensure you untick this box before continuing. This is for two reasons:

1. The iCloud Drive should not be used to store University files as this will be in breach of University regulations.
   
   Storing University data on servers outside the EU potentially breaks data protection laws, and could leave you and the University open to prosecution with a penalty of up to £100,000.
   
   
2. If this option is selected, trying to turn it off in system preferences could potentially lead to data loss.

 

How to disable the iCloud Drive feature from System Settings

Please turn it off as follows:
 
1. Open "System Settings"

 

2. Select your name (with option that says Apple ID)

 

3. Select "iCloud Drive" (as highlighted in image below)

 

4. On the next screen, unlock the option "Synch this Mac"

Waring: Please do not unlock the option “Desktop & Documents Folders”: if you do this, your data will be removed from your Mac but kept in iCloud.

 

5. You will then be offered the following options:

• Remove from Mac
• Keep a copy
• Cancel

Please choose the option to "Keep a copy":

 

6. Your files will be moved to a folder called 'iCloud Drive (Archive)' in your home folder. It will appear a new window showing a progress bar:

You can move your files from there back to your desktop and documents folders. 

 

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