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OneDrive File Issues

How to Change the OneDrive Folder Linked in File Explorer

Khadija KhanKhadija Khan Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to change the OneDrive folder path displayed in the File Explorer sidebar because it is linked to the wrong local path or Microsoft account.

How to Change the OneDrive Folder Linked in File Explorer
Product
OneDrive
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Managing synced cloud folders within the desktop file manager.
Observed behavior
The File Explorer sidebar displays a OneDrive folder linked to an incorrect location or account, despite the OneDrive app itself functioning normally.
Before you start

Ensure you have the login credentials for the correct Microsoft account ready, and confirm that all recent files in your current OneDrive folder have finished syncing to prevent data conflicts.

Solution 1Recommended

Unlink the Incorrect Account and Re-Sign In

Unlinking the currently connected Microsoft account resets the integration, allowing File Explorer to map the correct OneDrive folder when you sign back in.

This solution will not delete any of your files. It simply severs the connection between your PC and the current OneDrive account, removing the incorrect sidebar link.

1
Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the notification area (system tray) at the bottom right of your screen. Click the 'Help & Settings' gear icon, then select 'Settings'.

2
Unlink This PC

Navigate to the 'Account' tab in the settings window and click on the 'Unlink this PC' option. Confirm the action when prompted.

3
Sign In with the Correct Account

The OneDrive setup screen will appear automatically. Enter the email address and password for the correct Microsoft account.

4
Verify the Folder Location

During the setup process, verify the local folder path displayed. If you need to change the location, click 'Change location' before completing the setup. Once finished, File Explorer will display the correct OneDrive folder in the sidebar.

Unlink the Incorrect Account and Re-Sign In
Folder Re-linked Successfully: If the correct account was used, the File Explorer sidebar will automatically refresh to show the updated OneDrive directory.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Will unlinking my OneDrive account delete my local files?

No. Unlinking your account simply stops the syncing process. Your files will remain on your computer's local drive and in the cloud, but any changes made will not sync until you reconnect the account.

How can I change the default local path of my OneDrive folder?

You can only change the folder location during the initial setup. To do this, unlink your PC in the OneDrive account settings. When you sign in again, click 'Change location' on the setup screen before finalizing the process.

Why are there two OneDrive folders in my File Explorer sidebar?

This usually happens if you have both a 'OneDrive - Personal' account and a business account linked to the same computer. You can hide or unlink the one you do not need through the OneDrive 'Account' settings tab.