OneDrive File Issues

How to Stop OneDrive from Syncing Files Between Two PCs

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to stop OneDrive from automatically synchronizing files, desktop backups, and storage between two different computers.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Two different users are sharing a single Microsoft account across two PCs, which causes their files and desktop layouts to merge and sync unintentionally.
Observed behavior: Files, desktop backups, and cloud storage capacity are shared across both computers, compromising privacy and independent storage space.

Before you start

Before unlinking or changing accounts, ensure you copy any important personal files currently in the shared OneDrive folder to a local, non-syncing folder on your computer to avoid losing access.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Separate Microsoft Accounts for Each PC

Because OneDrive storage and sync settings are directly tied to a specific Microsoft account, the only way to achieve completely independent synchronization is by using separate accounts on each device.

When multiple people use the same Microsoft account on different computers, OneDrive treats them as a single user. This means desktop backups, documents, and pictures will sync across all connected devices.

To stop this behavior, you must unlink the shared account from one of the PCs and sign in with a distinct, individual Microsoft account.

Create a New Account

If the second user does not already have a Microsoft account, visit the official Microsoft account creation page to register a new one.

Open OneDrive Settings

On the PC you want to separate, click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows taskbar notification area, then click the gear icon to open 'Settings'.

Unlink the Shared Account

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

Sign In with the New Account

Once the PC is unlinked, the OneDrive setup screen will appear. Enter the credentials of the newly created Microsoft account to establish an independent sync environment.

Storage Separation: By using separate Microsoft accounts, each user will now have their own private OneDrive cloud storage space, and desktop files will no longer merge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stop OneDrive from syncing specific folders without changing accounts?

Yes. If you must use the same account but want to hide certain folders on one PC, click the OneDrive taskbar icon, go to Settings > Account, and click 'Choose folders'. Uncheck the folders you do not want to appear on that specific computer.

Will unlinking my PC delete my local files?

No, unlinking your PC stops the sync process, but any files that were already downloaded or marked as 'Always keep on this device' will remain on your local hard drive.

How do I temporarily pause OneDrive syncing on my computer?

To temporarily pause syncing, click the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar, click the gear icon (Settings), select 'Pause syncing', and choose a duration (e.g., 2, 8, or 24 hours). Syncing will resume automatically after the selected time.

Document & File Issues