OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage solution, tightly integrated into Windows 11. While it’s convenient for some, others find it unnecessary or want to free up system resources. If you’re one of those users, uninstalling OneDrive is straightforward.
In this guide, I’ll show you multiple ways to uninstall OneDrive on Windows 11, step by step, along with tips to fully remove leftover files.
Why Uninstall OneDrive?
Before removing it, here are some reasons you might want to uninstall OneDrive:
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You don’t use cloud storage and prefer local files.
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It runs in the background, consuming memory and CPU.
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You want to avoid automatic file syncing.
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It clashes with other cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Uninstalling OneDrive can help improve system performance and reduce clutter.
Method 1: Uninstall OneDrive via Settings
The easiest method is through Windows 11 Settings.
Step-by-Step:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps > Apps & features.
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Scroll down and find Microsoft OneDrive.
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Click the three dots next to it and select Uninstall.
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Confirm the uninstallation.
✅ OneDrive will be removed, but some residual folders may remain.
Method 2: Uninstall OneDrive via Control Panel
The classic Control Panel still works on Windows 11.
Step-by-Step:
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Press Windows + S, type Control Panel, and open it.
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Navigate to Programs > Programs and Features.
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Locate Microsoft OneDrive in the list.
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Right-click and select Uninstall.
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Follow the prompts to complete the process.
Method 3: Using Command Prompt
For advanced users, Command Prompt allows silent uninstallation.
Step-by-Step:
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Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
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Type the following command and press Enter (for 64-bit Windows):
For 32-bit Windows, use:
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Wait a few seconds—OneDrive will be uninstalled silently.
Method 4: Disable OneDrive from Startup
If you don’t want to uninstall but just prevent OneDrive from running:
Step-by-Step:
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Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
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Go to the Startup tab.
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Find Microsoft OneDrive and right-click Disable.
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Restart your PC.
This prevents OneDrive from consuming resources without fully removing it.
How to Remove Leftover OneDrive Folders
After uninstalling, some folders may remain:
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Open File Explorer.
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Navigate to your user folder (usually
C:\Users\YourName). -
Delete the OneDrive folder if it’s still there.
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Optional: Open Registry Editor (
regedit) and remove any OneDrive entries under:
⚠️ Be careful when editing the registry—back it up first.
Reinstalling OneDrive (Optional)
If you ever want OneDrive back:
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Visit the official Microsoft OneDrive download page.
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Download and run the installer.
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Sign in with your Microsoft account to start syncing again.
Conclusion
Uninstalling OneDrive on Windows 11 is simple whether you use Settings, Control Panel, or Command Prompt. You can also disable it from startup if you prefer keeping it without running it automatically.
Removing OneDrive can free up system resources, reduce clutter, and prevent unwanted syncing, giving you more control over your PC.
FAQs
1. Will uninstalling OneDrive delete my files?
No, local files remain on your PC. Only cloud syncing stops.
2. Can I reinstall OneDrive after uninstalling?
Yes, you can download it from Microsoft’s official website.
3. Does uninstalling OneDrive improve performance?
It can free up memory and CPU usage, especially on lower-end PCs.
4. Can I just disable OneDrive instead of uninstalling?
Yes, disabling it from startup prevents it from running without removing it.
5. How do I remove leftover OneDrive folders?
Delete the OneDrive folder in your user directory and optionally remove registry entries.