OneDrive File Issues

Why OneDrive Is Syncing Files from Another Computer & How to Stop It

Aamir Naveed Akram Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to understand why files from a different computer are appearing on their device and how to stop this cross-device synchronization.

How to Stop OneDrive from Syncing Files from Another Computer

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Multiple computers in a household are either sharing the same Microsoft account or have an old, active OneDrive connection left behind.
Observed behavior: Unfamiliar files and screenshots from another computer are automatically downloading and appearing in the local OneDrive folder.

Before you start

Before making any changes, verify which Microsoft account is signed into your OneDrive and back up any critical files locally to avoid accidental data loss when unlinking devices.

Solution 1Recommended

Unlink the Unwanted Computer from OneDrive

Disconnecting the secondary device from your account stops it from uploading its local files to your shared OneDrive cloud.

If you have physical access to the computer that is sending the unwanted files, the most direct solution is to unlink the account on that specific machine. This severs the connection without deleting your actual Microsoft account.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click on the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray of the unwanted computer, then click the gear icon and select 'Settings'.

Navigate to the Account Tab

In the Settings window, click on the 'Account' tab located in the left sidebar or top menu.

Unlink This PC

Click the 'Unlink this PC' link under your account information, and confirm the prompt to disconnect the device.

Unlink the Unwanted Computer from OneDrive

Sync Stopped: Once unlinked, that computer will no longer upload new screenshots or files to your OneDrive account.

Solution 2

Change Your Microsoft Account Password

If you do not have physical access to the other computer, changing your password will revoke its access to your OneDrive.

Solution 3

Clean Up Unwanted Files Safely

After stopping the sync, you should safely remove the unfamiliar files that were already downloaded to your machine.

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Switch to WPS Office for Easier File Control

If managing shared OneDrive sync settings is too frustrating, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides an intuitive, built-in WPS Cloud alternative with easy-to-manage sync settings, while offering a complete suite of Office tools completely free.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and click on 'Download WPS Office Free'.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the suite.
3. Manage Files Easily: Sign in to access WPS Cloud, where you can easily control which devices sync your important documents.

Seamless compatibility with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Built-in free WPS Cloud storage with straightforward device management.Lightweight application that uses minimal system resources.Free to download and use with a highly familiar, tabbed user interface.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my files suddenly start syncing from another computer?

This typically happens if you recently signed into a new device with your Microsoft account, or if a family member is using a household computer that is still linked to your primary account credentials.

Will deleting these files from my computer remove them from the other computer?

Yes, if both devices are actively syncing to the same OneDrive account, deleting a file on your computer will delete it from the cloud and the other linked computer. Always unlink the device before deleting files you don't want to affect globally.

How do I know which computers are connected to my OneDrive?

You can check your connected devices by logging into account.microsoft.com, navigating to the 'Devices' tab, and reviewing the list of computers currently authorized to use your account.

Can I stop syncing just specific folders instead of unlinking the entire PC?

Yes, you can use the 'Choose folders' option in OneDrive settings to select which folders sync to a specific PC. However, if the other computer belongs to someone else, unlinking the account entirely is much safer for your privacy.

Document & File Issues