OneDrive File Issues

How to Use OneDrive on Two Computers Without Syncing Desktops

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user wants to share cloud storage using the same Microsoft 365 and OneDrive account across a business and a personal computer, without their respective Desktop files and shortcuts merging.

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Using a single OneDrive account across two distinct computers to access shared files without overlapping local environments.
Observed behavior: Desktop files and shortcuts are synchronizing between the two computers because OneDrive merges backed-up Desktop folders by default.

Before you start

Before altering your sync settings, be aware that disabling folder backup may move existing desktop files into the OneDrive cloud folder, removing them from your local desktop screen. You may need to manually move them back to your local PC afterward.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable Desktop Folder Backup in OneDrive Settings

Turn off the PC folder backup specifically for your Desktop to prevent files and shortcuts from merging across your devices.

OneDrive's default backup feature automatically syncs the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders into the cloud. When the same account is used on multiple computers with this feature enabled, it combines the desktops into one.

You cannot exclude individual files from these important folders, so you must disable the backup for the entire Desktop folder to keep each PC's desktop independent.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows taskbar notification area, click the gear icon for 'Help & Settings', and select 'Settings'.

Navigate to Sync and Backup

In the Settings window, click on the 'Sync and backup' tab on the left sidebar.

Manage Backup

Click the 'Manage backup' button to view the folders currently being synced to OneDrive.

Toggle Off Desktop Sync

Find the 'Desktop' folder in the list and toggle the switch to the off position. Confirm your choice by clicking 'Stop backup'.

Where are my files?: After stopping the backup, your previously synced files will remain in your OneDrive folder and a 'Where are my files' shortcut will appear on your empty desktop. Double-click it to locate your files and move them back to your local desktop if desired.

Solution 2

Use Dedicated OneDrive Folders for Shared Files

Avoid placing shared files on the desktop and instead organize them into specific folders within your OneDrive directory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are desktop shortcuts from my work computer appearing on my personal laptop?

This happens because OneDrive's 'PC Folder Backup' feature is turned on for the Desktop folder on both computers. Because both PCs sync to the same OneDrive cloud folder, their desktop files and shortcuts merge and display on both screens.

Can I stop OneDrive from syncing specific desktop shortcuts while keeping other files backed up?

No, OneDrive does not allow you to exclude individual files or shortcuts within the Desktop, Documents, or Pictures folders. You must either sync the entire Desktop folder or disable backup for the Desktop entirely.

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

No, you will not lose your files. However, the files will remain securely in your OneDrive cloud folder and will disappear from your local PC's desktop. A shortcut will be left on your desktop directing you to their location so you can easily move them back to your local drive.

Can I use two different OneDrive accounts on the same computer?

Yes, you can run one personal OneDrive account and one OneDrive for Business account simultaneously on the same computer. However, you cannot run two personal OneDrive accounts on the same Windows user profile.

Document & File Issues