Do you have two computers synced together using your Microsoft account or OneDrive, but now want them to operate independently? Windows 11 makes syncing files and settings easy, but sometimes you need to unsync devices for privacy, troubleshooting, or organizational reasons.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to unsync two computers in Windows 11 safely, including stopping file sync, unlinking OneDrive, and separating shared settings.
Key Takeaways
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Unsyncing can involve OneDrive, Microsoft account settings, or app data.
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The process ensures files, settings, and preferences no longer transfer between devices.
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You can unsync either temporarily or permanently.
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Always backup important files before changing sync settings.
Why Unsync Computers in Windows 11?
Common reasons include:
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Moving to a new computer and keeping devices separate.
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Resolving sync conflicts or errors between PCs.
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Improving privacy and security by isolating accounts.
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Reducing OneDrive storage usage across multiple devices.
👉 Unsyncing gives you control over what data is shared and where.
Step 1: Back Up Your Important Data
Before making changes, ensure your files are safe:
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Check OneDrive folder and make sure all files are synced or backed up.
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Backup Documents, Desktop, and Pictures folders to an external drive if needed.
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Export Outlook emails, calendar, and contacts if using Microsoft 365.
✅ This prevents accidental data loss.
Step 2: Unsync OneDrive Between Two Computers
OneDrive is the most common way PCs stay in sync.
Steps:
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On the computer you want to unsync, click the OneDrive icon in the taskbar.
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Click Help & Settings > Settings.
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Go to the Account tab.
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Click Unlink this PC.
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Confirm by clicking Unlink account.
After this, OneDrive will stop syncing files, but local files remain on that PC.
Step 3: Turn Off Sync Settings in Windows 11
Windows 11 can sync system settings across devices (themes, passwords, language preferences).
Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Accounts > Windows backup.
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Under Remember my preferences, toggle off all options:
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Windows settings
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Passwords
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Language preferences
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Other Windows settings
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✅ Your PCs will now stop sharing settings via your Microsoft account.
Step 4: Sign Out or Remove Microsoft Account (Optional)
If you want complete separation, you can remove the Microsoft account from one PC:
Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Accounts > Your info.
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Select Sign in with local account instead.
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Follow the prompts to switch to a local account.
This fully disconnects the PC from your Microsoft account, stopping all sync features.
Step 5: Check Other Apps for Syncing
Some apps may still sync data between PCs:
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Edge browser: Go to Settings > Profiles > Sync and toggle off sync.
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Teams or Office apps: Sign out or remove accounts from File > Account > Sign out.
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Third-party cloud apps: Dropbox, Google Drive, etc., may require unsyncing individually.
✅ Make sure to review all apps that may sync files or settings.
Step 6: Restart Your Computers
After unsyncing:
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Restart both PCs to ensure all changes take effect.
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Open OneDrive or apps to verify files and settings no longer sync.
Tips for Unsyncing Devices Safely
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Do not delete local files when unlinking OneDrive unless you intend to remove them.
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Double-check shared folders to avoid accidental deletion.
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Consider using separate Microsoft accounts for personal and work PCs.
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Keep a backup of critical files offline before making major changes.
Common Issues When Unsyncing
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Files still appear in OneDrive | Make sure to unlink PC and restart OneDrive. |
| Settings still sync after turning off Windows backup | Sign out from Microsoft account and restart PC. |
| Shared apps still syncing | Check each app individually and remove accounts if necessary. |
| OneDrive prompts for login | Click Close OneDrive or unlink again from settings. |
Conclusion
Unsyncing two computers in Windows 11 is straightforward once you know where syncing occurs:
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Unlink OneDrive to stop file syncing.
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Turn off Windows sync settings for system preferences.
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Optionally switch to a local account for full separation.
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Check other apps like Edge, Teams, or Office.
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Restart PCs to apply changes.
👉 Following these steps ensures your computers operate independently, preventing unwanted file sharing or syncing issues.
FAQs About Unsyncing Computers in Windows 11
1. Does unsyncing OneDrive delete files?
No, local files remain on the PC unless you choose to remove them manually.
2. Will unsyncing stop syncing across all apps?
Not automatically — some apps like Edge or Teams may need to be signed out separately.
3. Can I reconnect the PCs later?
Yes, just sign in to OneDrive or Windows with the same Microsoft account again.
4. Is unsyncing the same as logging out?
Unsyncing stops automatic data transfer; logging out removes account access entirely.
5. Do I need admin rights to unsync a PC?
Yes, administrative privileges are usually required to unlink OneDrive or remove accounts.