Getting rid of OneDrive from Windows 11 is pretty straightforward. Start by unlinking your OneDrive account, then uninstall the app through the Settings menu. This will ensure OneDrive no longer syncs your files and is completely removed from your system.
How to Remove OneDrive from Windows 11
If you’re looking to free up space or just prefer using another storage service, here’s how you can remove OneDrive from your Windows 11 device.
Step 1: Unlink Your OneDrive Account
First, stop OneDrive from syncing by unlinking your account.
Open OneDrive from the system tray, go to Settings, and select “Unlink this PC.” This stops OneDrive from connecting to your files.
Step 2: Close the OneDrive App
Ensure OneDrive isn’t running in the background.
Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray and select “Close OneDrive.” This prevents any interference during uninstallation.
Step 3: Open Windows Settings
Navigate to the Settings menu to uninstall OneDrive.
Press Windows + I to open Settings, then select “Apps” to find all installed applications.
Step 4: Uninstall OneDrive
Locate and remove OneDrive from your system.
In “Apps & features,” find Microsoft OneDrive, click on it, and choose “Uninstall.” Confirm any prompts to complete the process.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Finish the process by rebooting your PC.
Restarting ensures any leftover OneDrive processes are completely removed from your system.
Once you’ve completed these steps, OneDrive will no longer be on your Windows 11 PC, freeing up space and stopping any automatic backups.
Tips for Removing OneDrive from Windows 11
- Before uninstalling, ensure all your files are backed up elsewhere.
- To prevent OneDrive from reinstalling during updates, disable it in the startup apps.
- Some files may still appear in the OneDrive folder; delete them manually if needed.
- If you want to reinstall OneDrive, you can easily download it from the Microsoft Store.
- Check your settings to ensure OneDrive is not set to start automatically with Windows.
What happens to my files when I uninstall OneDrive?
Your files remain on your computer and in the cloud. Uninstalling only stops the syncing.
Can I reinstall OneDrive later?
Yes, simply download it from the Microsoft Store and sign back in.
Does uninstalling OneDrive affect my Microsoft account?
No, your account remains active. It only removes the app from your device.
Is it safe to remove OneDrive from my PC?
Yes, it’s safe. Just make sure your files are backed up elsewhere.
Will removing OneDrive free up space?
Yes, it can free up space by removing the app and stopping file syncing.
Summary
- Unlink OneDrive account
- Close OneDrive app
- Open Windows Settings
- Uninstall OneDrive
- Restart your computer
Conclusion
Removing OneDrive from Windows 11 is a simple task that can help streamline your computer experience if you prefer another cloud service. Whether you’re looking to declutter your system or switch to a different storage solution, these steps will guide you through the process effortlessly. Remember, all your files will still be accessible via the web, and you can always reinstall OneDrive if you change your mind.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.
Featured guides and deals
