How to Uninstall OneDrive Windows 11 Step-by-Step Guide

Microsoft OneDrive is a convenient cloud storage service that comes preinstalled with Windows 11. It automatically backs up your files and syncs them across devices — but not everyone needs it. Maybe you prefer Google Drive, Dropbox, or just local storage. Or perhaps OneDrive’s constant syncing and pop-ups slow down your system.

Whatever the reason, this step-by-step guide on how to uninstall OneDrive on Windows 11 will show you multiple safe and effective methods to remove or disable it — permanently.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to uninstall OneDrive, stop it from running at startup, and clean up leftover files — all while keeping your data safe.

What Is OneDrive in Windows 11?

Microsoft OneDrive is a cloud storage service that syncs your files to the cloud, allowing you to access them anywhere on any device.

By default, Windows 11 integrates OneDrive deeply — it’s tied to your Microsoft account and File Explorer (you’ll see “OneDrive” on the left sidebar). It also automatically backs up your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders unless you turn it off.

While it’s helpful for many, not everyone appreciates having Microsoft’s cloud system constantly running in the background.

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Why You Might Want to Uninstall OneDrive

Here are some common reasons people choose to uninstall OneDrive:

• Performance impact: OneDrive sync can slow down older PCs.

• Storage concerns: It uses disk space for cached files.

• Privacy: Some users prefer not to sync personal data to Microsoft’s cloud.

• Preference: You might use Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud instead.

• Minimalism: You just want fewer background apps running.

👉 In short: If OneDrive doesn’t fit your workflow, uninstalling or disabling it can declutter your system and free up resources.

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Can You Safely Uninstall OneDrive?

Yes — you can safely uninstall OneDrive from Windows 11 without affecting your local files.

Uninstalling it won’t delete any files stored on your PC or in the cloud. However:

• Files stored only in OneDrive’s cloud will no longer sync.

• Files marked as “online-only” won’t be accessible offline.

Tip: Before uninstalling, back up any important OneDrive files to a local folder or an external drive.

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How to Uninstall OneDrive on Windows 11 (4 Proven Methods)

There are multiple ways to remove OneDrive, depending on your comfort level. Let’s go through each method step by step.

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🧩 Method 1: Using Windows Settings

This is the easiest and safest method.

Step-by-Step:

1. Open Settings — Press Windows + I on your keyboard.

2. Click Apps → Installed apps (or “Apps & features” in some builds).

3. In the search box, type OneDrive.

4. Click the three dots (⋮) next to Microsoft OneDrive.

5. Select Uninstall → Confirm when prompted.

✅ Result: OneDrive will be removed from your system within seconds.

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⚙️ Method 2: Using Control Panel

If you prefer the old-school route:

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.

2. Click Programs → Programs and Features.

3. Scroll down to find Microsoft OneDrive.

4. Right-click it and choose Uninstall.

That’s it! Windows will uninstall OneDrive completely.

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💻 Method 3: Uninstall OneDrive via Command Prompt

Tech-savvy users can use Command Prompt or PowerShell for a quick, silent uninstall.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.

2. In the Command Prompt window, type:

   taskkill /f /im OneDrive.exe


   (This stops the OneDrive process.)

3. Then enter the uninstall command:

   • For 64-bit systems:

     %SystemRoot%\System32\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall


   • For 32-bit systems:

     %SystemRoot%\SysWOW64\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall


4. Press Enter and wait a few moments.

Once completed, OneDrive will be fully removed from your system.

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🏢 Method 4: Disable OneDrive via Group Policy (Pro Editions Only)

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro, Education, or Enterprise, you can disable OneDrive system-wide — perfect for business environments.

Here’s how:

1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.

2. Navigate to:

   Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → OneDrive


3. Double-click “Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage.”

4. Select Enabled, then click Apply → OK.

Now, OneDrive will be completely disabled for all users.

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How to Stop OneDrive from Starting Automatically

Even after uninstalling or disabling OneDrive, you might want to stop it from launching automatically on startup.

Steps:

1. Right-click the Taskbar and choose Task Manager.

2. Go to the Startup apps tab.

3. Find Microsoft OneDrive.

4. Click Disable at the top-right corner.

Alternatively:

• Open OneDrive settings → Settings tab → Uncheck “Start OneDrive automatically when I sign in to Windows.”

✅ Result: OneDrive will no longer start when your PC boots up.

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How to Delete Leftover OneDrive Folders and Files

After uninstallation, some folders or configuration files may remain. Here’s how to remove them:

1. Press Windows + R, type %UserProfile%, and press Enter.

2. Delete the OneDrive folder if it exists.

3. Open File Explorer, navigate to:

   C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\


   Delete any OneDrive folders.

4. Empty your Recycle Bin.

🧹 This completely removes OneDrive traces from your PC.

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How to Reinstall OneDrive If Needed

Changed your mind? You can reinstall it easily.

Option 1: From Microsoft Store

1. Open the Microsoft Store app.

2. Search for Microsoft OneDrive.

3. Click Install.

Option 2: From Command Prompt

Run:

That’s it — OneDrive will be reinstalled and ready to use.

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Difference Between Disabling and Uninstalling OneDrive

If you’re unsure, disabling is safer — but uninstalling gives you more control.

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Common Issues After Removing OneDrive (and Fixes)

Here are a few potential issues and how to fix them:

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Alternative Cloud Storage Options

If you’re uninstalling OneDrive, consider these alternatives:

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Key Takeaways

• ✅ You can safely uninstall OneDrive without losing local files.

• 🧩 Use Settings or Command Prompt for a complete removal.

• ⚙️ Disable it via Group Policy for enterprise setups.

• 🧹 Always delete leftover files after uninstallation.

• ☁️ Consider alternative cloud services if you still need online backups.

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Conclusion

And that’s it — you now know exactly how to uninstall OneDrive on Windows 11 step by step.

Removing OneDrive can make your system feel cleaner, faster, and more private. Whether you simply disable it or fully uninstall it, the process is quick and reversible. And if you ever change your mind, reinstalling it takes just a few clicks.

So go ahead — declutter your PC, reclaim your system’s performance, and take full control over your files.

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❓FAQs

1. Is it safe to uninstall OneDrive from Windows 11?

Yes. It won’t delete your local files — only the syncing feature will be removed.

2. Will uninstalling OneDrive delete my files?

No. Your local files stay intact. However, files stored only online will no longer sync.

3. How do I stop OneDrive from opening on startup?

Go to Task Manager → Startup apps → Disable OneDrive.

4. Can I reinstall OneDrive later?

Yes. Just download it again from the Microsoft Store or run OneDriveSetup.exe.

5. What’s the difference between unlinking and uninstalling OneDrive?

Unlinking stops syncing but keeps the app installed. Uninstalling removes it completely.

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✅ In summary:
Uninstalling OneDrive on Windows 11 is simple, reversible, and safe. Whether you use Settings, Command Prompt, or Group Policy, following the right steps ensures your PC stays clean and clutter-free — without affecting your personal data.