How to Stop OneDrive Desktop Folder Conflicts on Two Computers
Question details
The user wants to use a single OneDrive account across two computers without their Desktop files and shortcuts merging together.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Syncing files using a single OneDrive account on multiple devices.
- Observed behavior
- Files and desktop shortcuts from one computer automatically appear on the second computer's desktop due to OneDrive folder synchronization.
Before changing your sync settings, create a local copy of your important Desktop files in a non-synced folder (like your C: drive or Documents folder if it is not synced) to ensure no data is accidentally misplaced during the configuration process.
Disable Automatic Desktop Backup on Additional Devices
Prevent Desktop merging by turning off the PC Folder Backup feature for the Desktop folder on one or both computers.
OneDrive's backup feature is designed to mirror your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures across all devices using the same Microsoft account. To stop your desktops from merging, you must tell OneDrive to stop automatically backing up the Desktop folder on at least one of your computers.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray (bottom-right corner of the taskbar), click the 'Help & Settings' gear icon, and select 'Settings'.
Navigate to the 'Sync and backup' tab (or the 'Backup' tab in older versions) and click the 'Manage backup' button.
Locate the 'Desktop' folder in the list and toggle the switch to the 'Off' position (or click 'Stop backup').
Confirm your choice. Existing files will remain in your OneDrive folder, but new local Desktop files will no longer sync across to your other computer.
Use Separate Device-Specific Folders Inside OneDrive
Instead of using the default Desktop sync, create separate folders in OneDrive for each computer to keep files organized and isolated.
Manage Your Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
If you are tired of sync conflicts and complex backup settings in Microsoft 365 and OneDrive, try WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative with seamless file management and built-in cloud storage that gives you full control over what gets synced without unexpectedly merging your devices.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and run the lightweight installer.
- 2. Sign In for Cloud Access: Sign in to activate your free WPS Cloud space for secure, controlled document backups.
- 3. Create and Manage: Start creating and managing your documents directly within the unified WPS workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my desktop icons appear on another computer?
This happens when both computers use the same Microsoft account and have the OneDrive 'Desktop' backup feature enabled. OneDrive synchronizes the Desktop folder to the cloud and pushes those files to all connected devices, effectively merging your desktop shortcuts and files.
Will turning off Desktop backup delete my files?
No, turning off the backup will not delete your files. The files currently on your Desktop will safely remain in the OneDrive folder, and a shortcut labeled 'Where are my files?' will typically appear on your local Desktop to help you locate them easily.
Can I choose which specific files sync to the Desktop?
OneDrive's PC Folder Backup feature is all-or-nothing for the Desktop folder. To control specific files, you must disable the global Desktop backup and manually place only the desired files into your OneDrive directory.
