OneDrive File Issues

How to Keep Two Computers Separate in Microsoft 365 and OneDrive

Steve K Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to prevent two laptops from synchronizing the same OneDrive files and desktop folders by separating their Microsoft 365 and OneDrive connections.

How to Keep Two Computers Separate in Microsoft 365 and OneDrive

Product: Microsoft 365 / OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Two laptops are signed into the same Microsoft account, causing unwanted file synchronization across both devices.
Observed behavior: Files and desktop folders from one computer automatically appear on the other computer due to shared OneDrive synchronization.

Before you start

Ensure that any files you recently worked on have finished uploading to OneDrive to prevent temporary data loss before disconnecting the account.

Solution 1Recommended

Unlink OneDrive on the Secondary Computer

This is the most effective method to stop file synchronization on a device without deleting files stored in the cloud.

By unlinking a PC, you sever the connection between the local computer and the cloud storage. The local files remain on your device, but they will no longer sync with OneDrive.com or your other connected laptop.

Open OneDrive

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in your computer's taskbar or system tray.

Access Settings

Click the gear icon (Help & Settings) in the top right corner of the OneDrive menu, then select Settings.

Navigate to the Account Tab

In the Settings window, click on the Account tab on the left-hand side.

Unlink the PC

Click on 'Unlink this PC' and confirm your choice in the dialog box that appears. Synchronization will stop immediately.

Unlink OneDrive on the Secondary Computer

File Safety Guaranteed: Unlinking does not delete your files. They will remain safely stored and accessible via OneDrive.com.

Solution 2

Use Separate Microsoft Accounts for Each Device

Ideal for computers used by different individuals to ensure privacy and prevent accidental file merging.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Work Offline and Save Locally with WPS Office

Avoid unwanted cloud synchronization by using WPS Office, a free and lightweight alternative to Microsoft 365. It gives you total control over where your documents are saved, allowing you to easily work locally on your device while maintaining full compatibility with Microsoft Office file formats.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your computer.
2. Create or Open a Document: Launch WPS Writer, Spreadsheet, or Presentation and open your existing Office files.
3. Save Files Locally: Click Menu > Save As, and choose a dedicated local folder on your computer to keep your work completely separate from cloud networks.

Save files locally by default to completely avoid unwanted cloud syncing between devices.Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Lightweight software design ensures fast installation and smooth performance.Familiar user interface makes switching easy with zero learning curve.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Will unlinking OneDrive delete my locally saved files?

No, unlinking your PC from OneDrive only halts the synchronization process. The files that were already downloaded to your computer's local storage will remain there, and the master copies will stay safe on OneDrive.com.

How can I transfer files between two separate computers if they are unlinked?

Once unlinked, you can share files manually by using a USB flash drive, attaching files via email, or logging into OneDrive.com through a web browser to download specific files as needed.

Can I use the same Microsoft 365 subscription on two unlinked computers?

Yes. If you have a Microsoft 365 Family plan, you can share your subscription with up to five other people. Each person signs in with their own distinct Microsoft account, keeping their OneDrive files entirely separate while enjoying full access to the Office apps.

Document & File Issues