How to Uninstall OneDrive

OneDrive is a cloud storage and file synchronization service developed by Microsoft, integrated deeply into the Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems. It enables users to store, sync, and access files across devices, and integrates seamlessly with applications such as Microsoft Office and File Explorer. While OneDrive provides convenience for personal and business use, users may choose to uninstall it due to switching to alternative cloud services like Dropbox or Google Drive, freeing up local resources, or resolving conflicts with system performance.

A complete uninstallation ensures that no residual files, registry entries, or background processes remain on the system, which could otherwise interfere with performance or future installations. This guide outlines multiple methods to fully remove OneDrive from Windows 10 and Windows 11, while addressing differences between 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems. Each method includes detailed instructions, limitations, and success rate estimates.

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Method 1: Disable and Uninstall via Settings (Apps & Features)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

For Windows 10:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Navigate to Apps > Apps & Features.
3. Locate Microsoft OneDrive in the list of installed applications.
4. Click on it and select Uninstall.
5. Confirm the action and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

For Windows 11:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Search for OneDrive if necessary.
4. Click the three-dot menu next to the app and select Uninstall.
5. Confirm and follow the prompts to finish the uninstallation.

Notes:

• On Windows 11, OneDrive is often pre-installed as a system component, which may restrict full removal through this interface.
• If the uninstall option is not available, proceed to other methods.

Disadvantages:

• In some versions, especially Windows 11, OneDrive cannot be uninstalled directly through this method due to its system integration.
• May leave behind hidden folders and cached data.

Success Rate: 60–70%

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Method 2: Stop Sync and Remove via OneDrive Application

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Ensure the OneDrive icon is visible in the System Tray (bottom-right corner of the screen). If not, enable it in Taskbar settings.
2. Right-click the OneDrive icon and select Settings.
3. Under the Account tab, click Unlink this PC to disconnect from your Microsoft account.
4. Exit the application.
5. Navigate to the following directory and delete the OneDriveSetup.exe file:

• C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneDrive

1. Delete the OneDrive folder located at:

• C:\Users\YourUsername\OneDrive
  (Back up any important files before deletion.)

Notes:

• This method only stops syncing and removes the local instance; it does not fully uninstall the application.
• The OneDrive executable may restart automatically depending on system policies.

Disadvantages:

• Does not remove all installation files or registry entries.
• Not suitable for complete removal.

Success Rate: 50–60%

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Method 3: Manual Removal via Command Prompt and Registry Editor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Close all instances of OneDrive and ensure the system tray icon is no longer running.
2. Press Win + S, type Command Prompt, right-click and select Run as Administrator.
3. Enter the following command to stop the OneDrive process:

   taskkill /f /im OneDrive.exe

4. To completely remove OneDrive, enter the appropriate command based on your system architecture:

• For 32-bit systems: %systemroot%\System32\rundll32.exe advapi32.dll, ProcessIdleTasks %systemroot%\System32\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall
• For 64-bit systems:
  %systemroot%\SysWOW64\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall

4. After execution, manually delete the following directories:

• C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneDrive
• C:\Users\YourUsername\OneDrive

4. Open Registry Editor (regedit) as Administrator.
5. Back up the registry before proceeding.
6. Delete any registry keys under:

• HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace\{018D5C66-4533-43EF-9959-8AAFD2F8F07C}
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\App Paths\OneDrive.exe

Notes:

• This method should only be performed by advanced users familiar with the Windows registry.
• Incorrect deletions can cause system instability or affect other software.

Disadvantages:

• High risk of damaging the system if executed improperly.
• Time-consuming and complex for non-technical users.

Success Rate: 85–95% (with caution)

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Method 4: Use Perfect Uninstaller Software

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. If not already installed, download Perfect Uninstaller from its official website.
2. Launch the software after installation.
3. From the list of installed programs, locate Microsoft OneDrive.
4. Select the program and click Uninstall.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.
6. After removal, use the built-in Scan for Leftovers feature to detect and delete remaining files, folders, and registry entries.
7. Restart your computer to finalize changes.

Notes:

• Perfect Uninstaller automatically detects and removes leftover components.
• Compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11, and supports both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures.

Advantages:

• More thorough than standard uninstallers.
• User-friendly interface suitable for non-technical users.

Disadvantages:

• Requires downloading third-party software.
• Free version may have limited functionality unless upgraded to the full license.

Success Rate: 95–98%

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Final Thoughts & Professional Recommendation

Each method for uninstalling OneDrive presents different levels of effectiveness and complexity. Due to its deep integration into Windows 10 and Windows 11, particularly in 64-bit editions, removing OneDrive fully requires more advanced techniques than standard applications.

For general users, Method 1 (via Windows Settings) is the most accessible but often insufficient for a complete uninstallation. Method 3 (manual removal using Command Prompt and Registry Editor) offers greater control but demands technical expertise and poses risks if executed incorrectly. Method 4 (Perfect Uninstaller) stands out as the most reliable and user-friendly solution, ensuring the highest degree of completeness and minimizing residual traces.

As a professional, I recommend starting with native tools only if you are certain they will suffice for your needs. However, when aiming for a clean system state or preparing for reinstallation, relying on a trusted third-party utility like Perfect Uninstaller is both efficient and safe, provided that the source is verified and security protocols are followed.

In conclusion, while basic uninstallation methods are sufficient for many scenarios, achieving a truly clean removal of OneDrive often requires additional steps or specialized tools. Understanding the distinctions between 32-bit and 64-bit systems, as well as differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, is essential for ensuring a successful and complete uninstallation.