OneDrive File Issues

How to Stop OneDrive from Syncing Desktop Shortcuts Between Computers

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users want to prevent OneDrive from synchronizing their Windows desktop shortcuts across multiple computers so that deleting a shortcut on one device does not accidentally remove it from the others.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Managing desktop shortcuts while using multiple Windows computers linked to the exact same OneDrive account.
Observed behavior: OneDrive automatically syncs desktop shortcuts between devices because the Desktop folder backup feature is enabled, resulting in a shared and identical desktop layout across all computers.

Before you start

Ensure that the OneDrive application is running in your system tray and you are actively signed into your Microsoft account before attempting to change backup settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Turn Off Desktop Backup in OneDrive Manage Backup Settings

The most effective method to stop shortcut syncing is to disable the Desktop folder backup entirely within OneDrive.

Because the Desktop is considered a protected folder by Windows, it cannot be simply unchecked from the standard 'Choose folders' list. You must manage this through the specific backup settings inside the OneDrive application.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows taskbar system tray, click the gear icon for Help & Settings, and select 'Settings' from the menu.

Navigate to Manage Backup

Go to the 'Sync and backup' tab (or the 'Backup' tab in older versions of the app) and click the 'Manage backup' button.

Disable Desktop Syncing

Locate the 'Desktop' folder in the list of protected folders and toggle the switch to turn off the backup. Confirm your choice to stop syncing your desktop items across your linked devices.

Protected Folders: Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Music, and Videos are protected folders. Custom sync settings for these folders are specific to each computer and must always be managed via 'Manage backup'.

Solution 2

Organize Files Outside the Synced Desktop Folder

If you want to keep specific shortcuts device-local while still synchronizing other important files, you need to separate them manually.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the option to uncheck the Desktop folder disabled in Choose Folders?

On Windows operating systems, folders like Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Music, and Videos are designated as protected folders. They cannot be unchecked in the traditional 'Choose folders' menu. To stop syncing them, you must open your OneDrive settings, select 'Manage backup', and turn off the backup for that specific folder.

Will turning off Desktop backup delete my current files?

No, turning off the backup will not delete your files. The existing shortcuts and files will remain safely in your OneDrive folder online, and you can manually move them back to your local computer's desktop if needed.

Can I have different OneDrive sync settings on different computers?

Yes, custom sync settings for protected folders like the Desktop are specific to each individual computer. Turning off the Desktop backup on your work laptop will not automatically turn it off on your home PC.

Document & File Issues