File Sharing Problems

How to Stop OneDrive Syncing Desktop Files on Two Computers

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users want to prevent their desktop files and shortcuts from synchronizing across two separate computers while still sharing a OneDrive account.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Two individuals are using a single OneDrive account on different computers for file sharing.
Observed behavior: Desktop shortcuts and files sync between both devices, resulting in mixed personal files instead of independent desktop environments.

Before you start

Ensure you know which Microsoft account is currently signed into OneDrive on both computers, and manually copy important desktop files to a local folder to prevent accidental data loss before changing sync settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Separate Microsoft Accounts and Share Specific Folders

The most reliable way to maintain independent desktops is to use separate Microsoft accounts and share only the necessary folders between them.

Sharing a single personal OneDrive account across multiple users merges all synced data, including Windows desktops.

By setting up individual accounts, you ensure full privacy for each user while utilizing folder sharing for collaborative files. If you have Microsoft 365 Family, each member can have their own 1TB storage without interfering with one another.

Sign out of the shared account on the secondary PC

Click the OneDrive cloud icon on the Windows taskbar, click the gear icon for Settings, navigate to the 'Account' tab, and select 'Unlink this PC'.

Log in with a separate account

Share required folders

From the primary computer, open OneDrive online, right-click the folder you want to share, select 'Share', and enter the email address of the new secondary account.

Best Practice: This method entirely separates your Windows environments while allowing seamless collaboration on selected files.

Solution 2

Turn Off Desktop Folder Backup

If you must use the same Microsoft account on both computers, you can disable the Desktop folder backup feature to stop it from syncing.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for Independent Document Management

Avoid messy synchronization issues and overlapping desktops by using WPS Office. With its user-friendly interface, built-in cloud options, and high compatibility with Microsoft formats, it provides an excellent alternative for managing and sharing documents independently.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your computer.
2. Create a Free Account: Sign up for a free WPS account to access cloud storage dedicated only to your documents.
3. Share Files Securely: Share individual files with team members via secure links without risking desktop file synchronization.

Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Built-in WPS Cloud for independent file management and easy sharingLightweight application that runs smoothly on nearly all devicesNo forced synchronization of your system desktop files

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can two users share one Microsoft 365 Personal subscription?

No, a Microsoft 365 Personal subscription is designed for one individual. Sharing the login will sync all data, including desktops, across devices. Upgrading to a Microsoft 365 Family plan allows up to 6 separate accounts with independent storage.

How do I share specific files without sharing my whole OneDrive?

You can right-click any file or folder within your OneDrive folder, select 'Share', and enter the recipient's email address. This grants them access to that specific file without exposing your entire account or desktop files.

Will turning off Desktop backup delete my existing files?

No, stopping the backup will not delete your files. The files currently backed up remain in the 'Desktop' folder inside your main OneDrive directory, but new files saved to your local desktop will no longer upload automatically.

Document & File Issues