OneDrive File Issues

How to Use the Same OneDrive Files on Two Windows Computers

Rana Garcia Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to synchronize their OneDrive files and folder structures between an older and a newer Windows computer using the same Microsoft account.

How to Use the Same OneDrive Files on Two Windows Computers

Product: OneDrive and Microsoft 365
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Setting up a second Windows computer and needing to access the exact same files, folders, and structural changes seamlessly across both devices.
Observed behavior: Files stored in synchronized folders need to automatically upload to the cloud and reflect any edits or structural changes across all connected Windows devices.

Before you start

Ensure both Windows computers are connected to a stable internet network and that you have the login credentials for the Microsoft account used on your primary device.

Solution 1Recommended

Set up OneDrive Sync on Multiple Windows Computers

Use the built-in OneDrive sync client with the same Microsoft account on both devices to keep your files and folder structures identical.

By signing in to the same Microsoft account on both computers, OneDrive will automatically bridge your files. You can carry over your entire file structure from an older computer to a newer one without manually transferring files via USB.

Open OneDrive on the second computer

Click the Start menu on your new or second Windows computer, search for 'OneDrive', and open the application.

Sign in with your Microsoft Account

Enter the exact same Microsoft account email and password that you use for OneDrive on your first computer.

Select folders to synchronize

During the setup process, click 'Choose folders' to specify which folders you want to be available locally on this second PC.

Allow the initial sync to complete

Leave both computers powered on and connected to the internet. Wait for the initial synchronization to finish before moving or making large changes to your file structure.

Set up OneDrive Sync on Multiple Windows Computers

Avoid Sync Conflicts: To reduce conflicts, avoid editing the exact same file simultaneously on both computers. Allow the file to finish syncing before opening it on the other device.

Solution 2

Enable OneDrive Files On-Demand

Use the Files On-Demand feature to save disk space on your second computer while still seeing your entire file structure.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Edit Your Synced Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office

WPS Office is a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to Microsoft 365. It integrates perfectly with your local OneDrive folders, allowing you to open, edit, and save your synchronized files across multiple computers without paying for expensive subscriptions.

1. Download and install WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office suite on both of your Windows computers.
2. Open your synced OneDrive folder: Navigate to your local OneDrive folder via Windows File Explorer to locate your synchronized documents.
3. Set WPS as the default editor: Right-click any Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file, select 'Open with', choose WPS Office, and check the box to always use this app.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including Word (.docx), Excel (.xlsx), and PowerPoint (.pptx).Open and save files directly to your synced local OneDrive folders without extra configuration.Lightweight installation consumes significantly fewer system resources than Microsoft 365.Includes a built-in WPS Cloud service for an additional layer of document synchronization and backup.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which OneDrive folders sync to each computer?

Yes. Click the OneDrive icon on your taskbar, open Settings, go to the Account tab, and click 'Choose folders'. This allows you to specify which folders download to that specific computer, allowing for customized file structures.

Will deleting a file on one computer delete it on the other?

Yes. Because your OneDrive folders are synchronized to the same Microsoft account, deleting a file on one computer will move it to the recycle bin and automatically remove it from all other connected devices.

How do I fix file sync conflicts in OneDrive?

Sync conflicts usually happen when a file is edited on two devices simultaneously while offline. OneDrive will save a duplicate copy of the file with your computer's name appended to it. You will need to manually open both versions and merge your changes.

Can I use multiple OneDrive accounts on the same Windows computer?

You can link one personal OneDrive account and multiple OneDrive for Business accounts to the same computer. However, Windows does not natively support linking two personal Microsoft OneDrive accounts at the same time.

Document & File Issues