Removing OneDrive from Windows 10 can streamline your system and free up storage space. You’ll need to uninstall the app and also remove leftover files and registry entries. This guide will walk you through each step to ensure that OneDrive is completely removed from your system.
How to Completely Remove OneDrive from Windows 10
Following these steps will help you remove OneDrive from your Windows 10 machine. By the end, OneDrive will be uninstalled, and any related files and registry entries will be deleted.
Step 1: Unlink OneDrive from Your Account
Open OneDrive settings and unlink your Microsoft account.
To do this, click on the OneDrive icon in the system tray, go to Settings, and click "Unlink this PC." This ensures no files are synced while you uninstall.
Step 2: Uninstall OneDrive
Open the Control Panel and uninstall OneDrive.
Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features, find OneDrive in the list, click on it, and choose Uninstall. This removes the application from your computer.
Step 3: Delete OneDrive Folder
Delete the OneDrive folder from File Explorer.
Navigate to C:Users[YourUserName] and delete the OneDrive folder. This removes any residual files from your system.
Step 4: Remove OneDrive from Startup
Disable OneDrive from starting automatically.
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager, go to the Startup tab, find OneDrive, right-click, and select Disable. This stops OneDrive from running when you start your computer.
Step 5: Remove OneDrive Registry Entries
Open the Registry Editor and delete OneDrive entries.
Press Win+R, type "regedit" and hit Enter. Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID, find the OneDrive entries, and delete them. Be cautious, as incorrect changes can harm your system.
Once you complete these steps, OneDrive is fully removed from your Windows 10 machine. You won’t see any signs of the app, and no files will sync with OneDrive.
Tips for Completely Removing OneDrive from Windows 10
- Backup Your Data: Before you start, make sure to back up any important data.
- Use Safe Mode: If you encounter issues, try uninstalling in Safe Mode.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows 10 is updated to avoid any compatibility issues.
- Command Line: You can use Command Prompt for advanced uninstallation methods.
- Reboot: Always restart your computer after making significant changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall OneDrive after removing it?
Yes, you can download and reinstall OneDrive from the Microsoft website if you decide to use it again.
Will removing OneDrive affect my files?
No, your files stored in OneDrive cloud will remain intact. However, unsynced local files will be deleted.
Is it safe to edit the registry?
Editing the registry can be risky. Always back up the registry before making changes.
Can I remove OneDrive without uninstalling it?
Yes, you can simply unlink your account and disable the startup process if you don’t want to fully uninstall.
What if OneDrive won’t uninstall?
Try using a third-party uninstaller tool or uninstalling in Safe Mode.
Summary
- Unlink OneDrive from your account.
- Uninstall OneDrive.
- Delete OneDrive folder.
- Remove OneDrive from startup.
- Remove OneDrive registry entries.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to completely remove OneDrive from Windows 10, you can enjoy a clutter-free system. Whether you want to free up space or just don’t use OneDrive, following these steps will ensure it’s gone for good. Remember to backup your data and be cautious when editing the registry. If you ever decide to use OneDrive again, you can easily reinstall it. For further reading, you might want to explore more tips on managing your Windows 10 applications. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.