How Can I Uninstall OneDrive Without Losing My Files?

If you're determined to remove OneDrive, know that just uninstalling it might not be enough, as Windows Updates may reinstall it. It might require some additional steps.

To keep your files safe, go to the OneDrive website and download all your important files onto your laptop. Make sure to disable OneDrive backup so they aren't backed up again after you've downloaded them.

You can right-click on your files in OneDrive and select 'Always keep on this device.' This will download them completely and help you locate where they are stored on your laptop, so you can back them up alongside your other documents.

Before uninstalling OneDrive, make sure to back up all your files on an external drive, like a USB stick or an external hard drive. Additionally, copy everything into a new folder on your laptop that isn’t within OneDrive's directory. It’s also good to download any remaining files from the OneDrive website as a safety measure.

Consider whether you really want to cut ties with OneDrive. Its cloud storage can safeguard your files in case your laptop crashes or gets stolen. If you get a new laptop and log into your Microsoft account, your OneDrive files will be synced again. Just make sure you're regularly backing up important files elsewhere, too.