OneDrive File Issues

How to Stop a New Computer Syncing Files and Apps with an Old PC

Emma Brown Oct 13, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing an issue where files, desktop shortcuts, and application changes on a new computer are automatically syncing with an older computer.

How to Stop a New Computer from Syncing Files with an Old PC

Product: Windows / OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Setting up a new computer or using two computers simultaneously with the same account.
Observed behavior: Modifying, adding, or deleting files and apps on one computer unexpectedly replicates the same changes on the other connected computer.

Before you start

Temporarily disconnect your new computer from the internet or pause OneDrive syncing before making any further file deletions to prevent accidental data loss across both devices.

Solution 1Recommended

Manage OneDrive Folder Backup Settings

Disabling the automatic backup of your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders in OneDrive will stop these files from being shared between the two computers.

By default, signing into a new Windows PC with an existing Microsoft account automatically enables OneDrive folder backup. This bridges your local folders to the cloud, making changes mirror across all devices logged into the same account.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the blue or white OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows taskbar notification area. Click the Gear icon (Help & Settings) in the top right corner of the flyout, then select Settings.

Access Backup Options

Navigate to the 'Sync and backup' tab in the left sidebar of the OneDrive settings window, then click the 'Manage backup' button.

Stop Folder Backup

In the 'Manage folder backup' window, toggle off the switches for Desktop, Documents, and Pictures. Click 'Stop backup' to confirm. Your local files will no longer sync to the cloud or the old PC.

Recovering Deleted Files: If you already deleted files thinking they were just on the new PC, log into OneDrive online and check the Recycle Bin to restore them to your old PC.

Solution 2

Disable Windows Account Synchronization

Turn off the Windows backup and sync settings to prevent your application preferences, passwords, and themes from transferring between the two computers.

Solution 3

Unlink Your Microsoft Account from OneDrive

If you want to keep the computers completely separate and do not need cloud storage on the new device, unlinking the PC from OneDrive is the most decisive solution.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Your Documents Locally with WPS Office

If background syncing from Microsoft services is disrupting your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a robust, offline-first document editing experience that gives you complete control over exactly where your files are saved, without forced cloud integration.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the WPS Office website and download the free installation file for Windows.
2. Install on Your New PC: Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to set up the software locally.
3. Save Files Locally: When creating or editing documents, choose 'Save As' and select a local PC folder outside of the OneDrive directory to ensure complete privacy from your old computer.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptxSave and manage your files strictly on your local hard driveLightweight application that won't bog down your new computer's performanceFamiliar tabbed interface makes transitioning from MS Office quick and easy

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my new computer copy my old computer's desktop shortcuts and wallpaper?

During the initial Windows setup, signing in with an existing Microsoft Account enables both Windows Backup and OneDrive Desktop backup. This automatically downloads your cloud-saved wallpaper, preferences, and desktop files to the new device.

If I delete a file on my new PC, will it delete from my old PC too?

Yes. If both computers are actively syncing to the same OneDrive account and the file is located in a synchronized folder (like Desktop or Documents), deleting it on one device removes it from the cloud and the other connected PC.

Can I use the same Microsoft account on two PCs without syncing them?

Yes. You can sign in with the same Microsoft account but manually turn off 'Windows backup' in your Windows Settings and disable OneDrive folder backups. This lets you use the same account for app store purchases without merging your local files.

How do I recover files that were accidentally deleted due to this sync issue?

Log into OneDrive.com via a web browser using your Microsoft account. Navigate to the Recycle Bin on the left sidebar, select the accidentally deleted files or folders, and click 'Restore' to return them to their original location.

Document & File Issues