If you’re tired of OneDrive being on your Windows 10 system or simply don’t need it, you can easily remove it. This process involves a few simple steps: first, unlinking your account so it stops syncing, and then uninstalling the program altogether. This guide will take you through each step to ensure OneDrive is completely removed from your PC.
How to Remove OneDrive from Windows 10
Removing OneDrive from Windows 10 is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure that OneDrive no longer takes up space or resources on your computer.
Step 1: Unlink Your Account
Go to the OneDrive icon in the system tray, click it, then select "Help & Settings" and choose "Settings" from the menu.
In this step, you’re essentially telling OneDrive to stop syncing your files. This won’t delete any files already stored on your PC, but it will prevent any new files from syncing.
Step 2: Stop the OneDrive Process
Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, find "Microsoft OneDrive" under the "Processes" tab, and click "End Task."
Stopping the OneDrive process ensures that the application isn’t running while you attempt to uninstall it. This is a crucial step to avoid any system errors.
Step 3: Uninstall OneDrive
Open "Settings" from the Start menu, select "Apps," find "Microsoft OneDrive," and click "Uninstall."
Uninstalling OneDrive removes the program from your system. It’s a permanent action that you can still reverse by reinstalling from the Microsoft Store if needed.
Step 4: Remove OneDrive Leftovers
Use File Explorer to navigate to the OneDrive folder location, typically found in C:Users[YourUsername], and manually delete any leftover files.
By manually deleting leftover files, you make sure that no trace of OneDrive is left on your system, freeing up space and resources.
Step 5: Check Registry Entries (Optional)
Open the Registry Editor by typing "regedit" in the Run dialog box, then search for OneDrive entries to delete them.
This step is optional and only recommended if you are comfortable working with the registry. It ensures that all traces of OneDrive are completely removed.
After completing these steps, OneDrive will no longer be part of your Windows 10 experience. You won’t see it automatically starting up or syncing files, freeing your resources for other tasks.
Tips for Removing OneDrive from Windows 10
- Back up Important Files: Before you unlink and uninstall, ensure all important files are backed up elsewhere.
- Check for System Updates: Sometimes, updates can reinstall OneDrive. Keep an eye out and uninstall any reinstalled versions.
- Disable OneDrive in Startup: Use Task Manager to disable OneDrive from starting up when your PC boots.
- Consider Alternatives: If you still need cloud storage, explore other options like Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Use a Third-Party App: Some apps can help clean up leftover files and registry entries if you’re unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall OneDrive later if I change my mind?
Yes, you can always reinstall OneDrive from the Microsoft Store if you decide you need it again.
Will removing OneDrive delete my files?
No, files stored locally on your PC will remain, but those only in the cloud will not be accessible until reinstallation.
Is it safe to remove OneDrive from Windows 10?
Yes, removing OneDrive is safe, and Windows 10 can function normally without it.
Will my other Microsoft services be affected?
No, other Microsoft services like Office or Microsoft Edge will not be affected.
Do I need administrator rights to remove OneDrive?
Yes, you need administrator rights to uninstall programs from your PC, including OneDrive.
Summary of Steps
- Unlink your account via OneDrive settings.
- Stop the OneDrive process in Task Manager.
- Uninstall OneDrive via Settings.
- Remove leftover files manually.
- Optionally, delete registry entries.
Conclusion
Removing OneDrive from Windows 10 can streamline your computing experience by eliminating an unused service. Once gone, your system may feel lighter and more personal, no longer hindered by an application you don’t use. If you find you need cloud storage in the future, remember there are many options available, ensuring you’re never without a place to keep your precious files safe.
The process of removing OneDrive is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced technical skills, making it accessible to most users. Whether you’re doing it for more space, less clutter, or just because you prefer another service, rest assured that removing OneDrive is a reversible decision. If you ever change your mind, installing it is just as easy.
So, if you’re ready to take charge of your computer’s applications and resources, removing OneDrive might just be the next step for you.
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.