Remove OneDrive from Explorer in Windows 11

Microsoft OneDrive is a cloud storage and synchronization client from the techno-giant. Much like Windows 10, it is preinstalled in the Windows 11 and Microsoft continues to offer users to store their documents on OneDrive instead of storing them locally.

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Benefits of Storing Files on OneDrive

Storing documents on the OneDrive cloud offers several benefits. For example, any files stored on OneDrive will not be lost even if your computer stops working, your operating system fails to boot, or your hard disk gets corrupted or damaged. Files stored on the cloud remain safe and uncorrupted in most events, and they can be accessed from other devices at home or office.

Another benefit of using OneDrive cloud storage is its mobility. Your cloud files can be accessed from any part of the world. You don’t need to carry an external hard drive, USB flash drive or DVD-ROM alongside while traveling. All you need is an Internet connection and an electronic device such as a computer or mobile.

Cloud is extremely cost-effective. As businesses move to the cloud to store their data, they don’t need to set up or maintain data servers at their company premises. There is no need to deploy a special workforce to look after the servers.

Last but not least, cloud offers excellent collaboration features. Two or more employees can work on the same documents or files and changes show in real-time. There’s no need to separately email a document to multiple people.

Remove OneDrive Icon from Explorer

If you don’t want the OneDrive folder icon in the File Explorer, there are ways to remove it. Here are some methods:

Method 1: Using Group Policy Editor

Note: Group Policy Editor is not available in the Home edition of Windows 11. You can use this procedure only if you’re using the Pro or Enterprise editions.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + R.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and hit Enter.
  3. Click on OK.
  4. In the Group Policy Editor window, expand the following node from the left-hand side panel:
    • Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > OneDrive.
  5. Double-click on the Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage option on the right-hand side panel.
  6. Select the Enabled option.
  7. Click on OK.

Method 2: Using Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows Key + R.
  2. Type regedit and click on OK.
  3. In the newly opened window, open the following registry hive:
    • HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}
  4. Double-click on a string value named System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree on the right-hand side panel.
  5. Type 0 and click on OK.

If you’re using a 64-bit version of Windows, follow the additional procedure given below:

  1. Open the following registry hive:
    • HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Wow6432Node\CLSID\{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}
  2. Double-click on the string value named System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree and set the value to 0 (zero).
  3. Click on OK.

Uninstall OneDrive

Another alternative is to uninstall Microsoft OneDrive. Uninstalling OneDrive will automatically remove the OneDrive folder from the File Explorer in Windows 11.

  1. Click on Start > Settings.
  2. Click on Apps > Apps & Features.
  3. Scroll down and look for Microsoft OneDrive.
  4. Click on the three dots in front of OneDrive and select Uninstall.

Vikas is a technology enthusiast who loves writing articles on computers and technology. He writes on various topics related to software, software reviews, troubleshooting and tips & tricks to make people's digital lives better.