How to hide OneDrive in File Explorer Windows 11
You can hide OneDrive from your Windows 11 File Explorer sidebar by adjusting a simple setting or using a registry tweak.
Hiding OneDrive removes the cloud storage shortcut from the left navigation pane, decluttering your File Explorer and making local files more prominent.
This process is non-destructive, meaning your OneDrive files remain accessible and safely synced in their local folder, typically found at 📁C:\Users\[YourUsername]\OneDrive, even after the shortcut is hidden.
For instance, many users choose to hide OneDrive if they primarily use other cloud services or prefer to manage their local storage exclusively.
You can easily achieve this by either unlinking your Microsoft account from OneDrive or by modifying the Windows Registry for a more permanent solution.
Hide OneDrive by unlinking your PC via Settings > Account, or edit the registry at 🗝️HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6} and set System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree to 0. This removes the shortcut without deleting files.
How do I turn off OneDrive without deleting everything?
You can turn off OneDrive backup without losing your files by going to the “Sync and backup” settings and choosing to “Stop backup” for your Desktop, Documents, or Pictures folders.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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