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Backing up OneNote Notebooks

guide

On this page you will learn how to backup OneNote notebooks. OneNote notebooks require a different backup method (compared to OneDrive or Sharepoint Online), as a downloaded OneNote notebook cannot be opened without further action.

To do so, follow the steps below:

Step 1
Navigate to a OneNote notebook on the web.

Step 2
Click on the three dots next to the notebook, then on Open > Open In app:

Screenshot of the start page of a OneNote notebook The notebooks are listed in a table. There is a button next to the "Name" column. A menu opens. Select the first item " Open ". A second menu opens. Select the second element "Open in App".

Step 3
In the OneNote app that is now open, click on File at the top left:

Screenshot of the OneNote app. The "File" tab is the first element in the menu.

Step 4
Click on Export > Notebook > OneNote package (ONEPKG file) > Export:

Screenshot of the file view. The "Export" button is located in the "Information" file list between "Share" and "Send". The "1. Export Current" area opens. "Notebook" is the third element in the list. The "2. Select format" area opens. The file type "OneNote package" is the first entry in the list. The "Export" button is located below the list.

Step 5
Save the backup file to a location of your choice.

Step 6
The notebook can now be opened by double-clicking on it. It can be exported to the PC or another location.

Additional information:

Backing up files from OneDrive
Backing up files from SharePoint Online
Switch to local storage in Word, Excel and PowerPoint

last changed on 01/02/2026

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