Cloud storage best practices

Cloud storage services like Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud, and Google Drive allow you to conveniently share files, access media remotely, and back up projects. However, cloud storage is generally not optimized to meet the demands of music production. This guide covers how to avoid file-handling and performance issues when using cloud services with Ableton Live.

If you suspect a cloud storage application is causing performance issues in Live, quit the cloud application and turn off your internet connection before opening Live. If the problem goes away, the cloud application is likely at the root of the problem.

Cloud storage tips
How to configure iCloud
How to configure OneDrive
Troubleshooting cloud storage

Cloud storage tips

Store all media and project files locally.

Make sure any files saved to a cloud-synced folder are available locally on your computer at all times. Some services like OneDrive and iCloud offer the option to store files in the cloud, while saving only a reference or link to each file on your computer. This option is not recommended and can prevent Live from finding necessary files. 

Do not sync applications or plug-ins.

Only use cloud applications to store library content, such as audio files and Live Project Folders. Do not sync program files like the Live application, third-party applications, or plug-ins. Learn more about External Storage and Backup.

Turn off cloud synchronization before launching Live.

Scheduled syncs or backups occurring in the background can interfere with Live's performance at seemingly "random" intervals and can cause dropouts or performance issues. 

Note: Files containing a "[space]" as the file name's first character are not backed up to the cloud and may not work as expected with Ableton Live.

How to configure iCloud

Disable optimized storage

The Optimized Storage feature in iCloud Drive deletes older files from the Desktop and Documents folders when storage is low. If you save any media files in either of those folders, they may be automatically deleted.

To fix this, you can:

  • Re-download deleted files from iCloud Drive, then turn off Optimized Storage.
  • Move files to your Music folder, or any location other than Desktop or Documents.
  • Exclude Desktop and Documents from iCloud drive.

How to configure OneDrive

OneDrive Files on Demand

The Files on Demand feature in OneDrive stores references to files on your computer, while the actual file is in the cloud. Select "Always keep on device" to store media files locally.

OneDrive sync

If you want to stop syncing OneDrive on your computer, you can Pause and Resume your sync. Here's how to pause and resume sync in OneDrive.

For other services, refer to their documentation for how to make sure files are stored locally.

Troubleshooting cloud storage

The following issues encountered in Ableton Live may relate to cloud storage. If the steps listed above don't help, visit the linked resources for additional troubleshooting steps. 

Ableton offers these in-depth help and learning resources:

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