If you follow the correct steps, removing OneDrive from your computer can be a simple task. This article will walk you through the process of removing OneDrive from a Windows 10 computer, and I will also share my own thoughts and opinions throughout.
Step 1: Sign Out of OneDrive
The first step is to sign out of your OneDrive account. This will prevent any syncing or data loss during the removal process. To sign out, follow these steps:
- Click on the OneDrive icon in the system tray (located in the bottom-right corner of the screen).
- Select “More” and then click on “Settings”.
- In the Settings tab, click on “Account”.
- Click on the “Sign out” button.
Step 2: Unlink OneDrive from Your PC
After signing out, the next step is to unlink OneDrive from your computer. This will remove the connection between your computer and OneDrive. Follow these instructions:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command:
- Press Enter to execute the command. This will uninstall OneDrive from your computer.
%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /uninstall
Step 3: Remove OneDrive Files
Now that OneDrive is uninstalled, you can proceed to remove any residual files left on your computer. Follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
- In the address bar, type “%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive” and press Enter.
- Delete all the files and folders inside the “OneDrive” folder.
- Next, go to the following location: “%userprofile%\OneDrive” and delete all the files and folders there as well.
Step 4: Remove Registry Entries
To completely remove any traces of OneDrive from your computer, you will need to remove some registry entries. Please note that editing the registry can be risky, so it’s important to proceed with caution. Follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the following registry key:
- Delete the entire key by right-clicking on it and selecting “Delete”.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}
Conclusion
Removing OneDrive from your computer running Windows 10 can help free up storage space and eliminate any syncing issues. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully uninstall OneDrive and remove any residual files and registry entries. Remember to always proceed with caution when editing the registry, and if you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek assistance from a professional.