OneDrive File Issues

How to Stop Two Laptops from Synchronizing Files via OneDrive

Huma Ashraf Ch Sep 29, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to completely stop two laptops from synchronizing files and folders with each other.

How to Stop Two Laptops from Synchronizing Files via OneDrive

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: The user unlinked the laptops from a Microsoft account, but files created or deleted on one still affect the other.
Observed behavior: Typing or deleting files on one laptop replicates the changes on the second laptop due to lingering cloud folder synchronization.

Before you start

Ensure you back up all important files to an external hard drive or a secure local folder before disabling cloud synchronization, as files may be temporarily removed from your local desktop or documents folders.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable OneDrive Folder Backup on Both Laptops

This is the most direct way to stop the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders from synchronizing across devices sharing the same OneDrive account.

Even if a Microsoft account is unlinked from the Windows user profile, the standalone OneDrive application may still be signed in and actively backing up your main folders.

Open OneDrive Settings

Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon located on the right side of your Windows taskbar, then select Settings (the gear icon).

Navigate to Backup Options

In the OneDrive settings window, select the 'Sync and backup' tab on the left pane, and click on 'Manage backup'.

Turn Off Folder Sync

Toggle off the switches for all folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures) to stop them from backing up to the cloud.

Confirm Changes

Confirm the action to restore the default local folder locations on your Windows device. Repeat these steps on the second laptop.

Disable OneDrive Folder Backup on Both Laptops

Manual File Transfer: After disabling backup, your files might remain in the OneDrive folder. You will need to manually move them back to your local Windows folders.

Solution 2

Sign Out and Remove Devices from the Microsoft Account

Removing the device association entirely ensures no background services continue to sync data.

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Manage Your Local Documents Securely with WPS Office

If you prefer keeping your files local and want to avoid complex Microsoft account syncing issues across devices, WPS Office is an excellent, lightweight alternative. It provides powerful tools for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations without forcing unwanted background cloud synchronization.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to install the suite.
3. Work Locally: Open your documents directly from your local hard drive and enjoy full control over where your files are saved and synced.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my laptops still syncing after I removed my Microsoft account?

Even if you unlinked the Microsoft account from Windows settings, the OneDrive application might still be running and logged in separately, continuing to back up and sync your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders in the background.

Will I lose my files if I turn off OneDrive sync?

You will not lose your files, but they may be moved to the OneDrive folder instead of appearing on your local Desktop or Documents folder. You will need to manually drag them from the OneDrive directory back to your local directories.

Can I choose to sync only specific folders between the two laptops?

Yes. You can open OneDrive Settings, go to Account, click 'Choose folders', and select exactly which specific folders you want to be available locally on each device.

Document & File Issues