Removing OneDrive from File Explorer in Windows 11 can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with the steps. Essentially, you’re going to modify some settings and make a few tweaks in the Windows Registry. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have OneDrive out of your File Explorer in no time.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Remove OneDrive from File Explorer Windows 11
The following steps will guide you through the process of removing OneDrive from File Explorer in Windows 11. This involves making some changes to your system settings and the Windows Registry.
Step 1: Unlink OneDrive
Go to the OneDrive icon in the taskbar, click on it, and choose ‘Settings’.
Unlinking your OneDrive account will stop it from syncing files. This step is crucial to ensure OneDrive is not actively running when you proceed to the next steps.
Step 2: Disable OneDrive from Startup
Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the ‘Startup’ tab, find OneDrive, right-click it, and choose ‘Disable’.
Disabling OneDrive prevents it from automatically starting up when you boot your computer. This helps avoid any conflicts while making changes in the Registry.
Step 3: Open Windows Registry Editor
Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type "regedit," and hit Enter.
Opening the Registry Editor is key for the next steps. Be cautious when making changes here as incorrect modifications can affect your system.
Step 4: Navigate to the OneDrive Registry Key
In the Registry Editor, navigate to: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}.
This path holds the settings for OneDrive’s integration with File Explorer. You’ll be making changes to remove it from the Navigation Pane.
Step 5: Modify the System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree Value
Double-click on ‘System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree’ and change its value to 0.
Changing this value effectively removes OneDrive from the File Explorer’s Navigation Pane.
After completing these steps, OneDrive will no longer show up in your File Explorer. This doesn’t uninstall OneDrive; it merely hides it from view.
Tips on How to Remove OneDrive from File Explorer Windows 11
- Backup Your Registry: Always create a backup of your Registry before making any changes.
- Check for Updates: Sometimes, Windows updates might re-enable OneDrive. Keep an eye on it.
- Use Group Policy: For Pro and Enterprise versions, you can use Group Policy Editor to disable OneDrive.
- Re-enable Easily: Changing the Registry key back to 1 will re-enable OneDrive in File Explorer.
- Uninstall OneDrive: If you don’t use it at all, consider uninstalling OneDrive from the Control Panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I uninstall OneDrive?
Uninstalling OneDrive removes the application from your computer, but your files remain intact online.
Can I re-enable OneDrive later?
Yes, you can always revert the Registry change to show OneDrive in File Explorer again.
Do I lose my files if I unlink OneDrive?
No, unlinking OneDrive stops syncing but doesn’t delete your files.
Is it safe to edit the Registry?
Yes, if done correctly. Always back it up before making changes.
Can I hide OneDrive without using Registry Editor?
Yes, by using the Group Policy Editor if you’re on Windows Pro or Enterprise.
Summary
- Unlink OneDrive.
- Disable OneDrive in Startup.
- Open Windows Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the OneDrive Registry Key.
- Modify ‘System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree’ value to 0.
Conclusion
Removing OneDrive from File Explorer in Windows 11 might seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process if you follow the steps carefully. Whether you’re looking to simplify your File Explorer or just don’t use OneDrive, this guide helps you achieve a cleaner and more personalized browsing experience.
If you’re not comfortable editing the Registry, consider using the Group Policy Editor if available. Always remember to back up your Registry before making any changes. Future Windows updates may re-enable OneDrive, so keep an eye out and reapply the steps if necessary.
For further reading, check out Microsoft’s official documentation on OneDrive settings and Windows Registry editing. If you found this guide helpful, share it with others facing the same issue!