Cannot delete Dropbox folder on computer without deleting my documents

[DT8702]

I have bought a new computer and wanted to makes sure my important files are backed up. I have installed the Dropbox app. I synced some files and Dropbox created a seperate Dropbox folder under my username on my computer. However, I decided to back the files up locally. Went ahead to uninstall Dropbox app. However, it did not remove the dedicated Dropbox folder on my hard drive. When I attempted to delete the files my files in my Document folder get deleted as well! Tried to reinstall the app to attemept another uninstall but did not manage as the app could not overwrite the current Dropbox folder and I did not want to have it create another one Dropbox folder on my computer. I have also disconnected my computer with Dropbox but I cannot delete this folder without the files in my Documents folder being deleted as well.

I am using this brand spanking new laptop and would really appreciate any suggestions on how i can safely delete the entire Dropbox folder without simultanously deleting my documents in my Documents folder.

Thank you

[Megan]

Hey @DT8702, thanks for posting your question here! 

When you uninstall the Dropbox app, the folder remains on your device until you delete it. The changes though, wouldn't sync to the website, so you should be able to delete the folder without an issue.

Have you tried moving your Documents folder out of the Dropbox folder then deleting the latter? 

Do you get any error messages on your end when trying to do this?

Keep me posted, and we'll take it from there.

[DT8702]

Thabk you for you reply Lori. But that is the problem. For whatever reason my Dropbox folder and My Document folder on the hard drive are synced! If I delete soemthing in the Dropbox folder it also deletes it in the My Documents folder.

[Jay · Accepted solution]

Hi @DT8702, could you try these steps to restore the previous location of the Documents folder?

[DT8702]

Hi @jay. THANK YOU SO MUCH for your post. It had worked like a treat. All is back to normal again.

[GenetteDBX]

I have a similar issue. I have tried to follow the instructions that Jay left, however when I click on properties there is no location tab. There is a button "open file location" and this is what I get when I click on it. I am trying to remove my PC from the Dropbox folder.  I am part of a team and want to keep things separated. How can I remove my PC from here?

[Jay]

Glad to hear it helped out, @DT8702. 

@GenetteDBX, it looks like you're not right clicking the necessary folder within the 'My PC' section in your image. 

[GenetteDBX]

I right clicked on the Dropbox icon and that is what came up. Where else should I be clicking?

[Jay]

The thread I posted said to right click the Documents, or Desktop, or Downloads folder, depending on which you've enabled. 

They are only visible in the My PC folder shown on the left in the Dropbox folder.

[GenetteDBX]

Not to be an idiot. But it still is not showing locations. Can we do a screen share or can you send me a screen shot of this. I am using Windows 10, not my friend.