How to Disable OneDrive on Windows 11

Launched back in August 2007, OneDrive is a file hosting service developed by Microsoft that allows you to share your files, folders, and data across devices. It is a dedicated online cloud storage service where you can keep all personal and professional stuff in one place.

Image source: Microsoft

However, OneDrive comes with one minor limitation. The free storage space offered by the service is just 5 GB. And, it isn’t enough to store all your files and data in one place, right? You can opt for paid plans to increase the storage capacity and to make the most of other productive and core features offered by OneDrive.

OneDrive comes tightly integrated with Windows 11 making file syncing more easier. But if you’re not a fan of Microsoft’s cloud storage service, you can easily disable OneDrive on Windows 11 to subscribe out.

Let’s get started.

Also read: How to Uninstall OneDrive on Mac

How to Disable OneDrive on Windows 11

You can use this guide as a reference to completely disable OneDrive on your Windows PC.

Method 1: Pause OneDrive Sync

Well, this is one of the quickest methods to pause the OneDrive file syncing.

Tap the OneDrive icon (Cloud-shaped) icon placed on the Taskbar, select “Help and Settings”.

Image source: Windows Central

Tap on “Pause Syncing” and then pick any option between 2 hours, 8 hours, or 24 hours to disable OneDrive file syncing in the specified duration.

Method 2: Unlink OneDrive Account

No longer planning to use the OneDrive account on your Windows 11 device? Another simple method to disable OneDrive on Windows 11 is by unlinking your device. Here’s what you need to do.

Tap the OneDrive icon placed on the Taskbar and tap on Help and Settings.

In the context menu that appears on the screen, select “Settings”.

Switch to the “Accounts” tab and then tap on the “Unlink this PC” option.

Tap on OK to save the recent changes.

Also read: How To Fix OneDrive Unable to Move Shortcut Error

Method 3: Uninstall OneDrive App

If you’re pretty sure about not using the OneDrive storage on your Windows 11, you can simply uninstall the OneDrive app from your device. Follow these quick steps to uninstall OneDrive on Windows 11.

Tap on the Windows icon placed on the Taskbar, select “Settings”.

Switch to the “Apps” section from the left menu pane. Tap on Apps and Features.

Scroll through the list of installed applications to look for “Microsoft OneDrive”. Once you find it, right-click on it and hit the “Uninstall” option.

Image source: Gear Up Windows

Also read: How To Fix OneDrive is Full Error on Windows 10

Method 4: Disable OneDrive at Startup

OneDrive app automatically loads during the Startup and sometimes even results in a high CPU usage impact on your device’s performance. To disable OneDrive at startup, follow these steps:

Open Windows Settings> Apps.

Tap on “Startup Apps”.

Select “OneDrive” from the list and then turn off the switch.

You can also take a quick tour of other startup apps and manage the items accordingly.

Also read: How To Fix And Disable OneDrive High CPU Usage On Windows 10

Method 5: Disable OneDrive via Local Group Policy Editor

Another effective method to disable OneDrive on Windows 11 is by using the Local Group Policy Editor.

Press the Windows + R key combination to launch the Run dialog box. Type “Gpedit.msc” in the textbox and hit Enter.

In the Group Policy Editor window, navigate to the following folder location:

Computer configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > OneDrive.

Double-tap on “Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage”.

Check on the “Enabled” option. Hit on OK and Apply buttons to save the recent changes.

Method #6: Download Right Backup Anywhere App!

Switching to alternative cloud storage services is always a great idea. Download the Right Backup Anywhere app to securely store your important files and data, including pictures, videos, documents, audio, and more.

Right Backup Anywhere is a free online cloud storage service that allows you to back up your data so that you never have to worry about losing your precious memories.

Conclusion

So, folks, here’s how you can ditch the OneDrive services on your Windows PC or laptop. You can use any of the above-listed methods to disable OneDrive on Windows 11. Which cloud storage service do you use for storing your important files and data? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments box. Follow us on social media – Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.