Forum Discussion
How to disable OneDrive and stop it from coming up when I use SAVE As
I uninstalled OneDrive and its folders. I could not find the setting icon to unlink my computer prior to uninstalling it. It still is the first option that pops up under Save as....this is hindering my productivity.
Do I need to reinstall it and then try again to find the setting? All the posts online say to access the OneDrive help and setting icon...then click settings, then account, and select unlink this computer. The OneDrive setting icon does list and account option. This is so frustrating.
I feel held hostage by OneDrive which I don't want. Any help would be appreciated to resolve this annoyance.
I want to keep the OPTION to save to OneDrive. I just do not want it to default and show up. on any application.
I cannot unsee it Again, I do not want remove One Drive just have it not be first option to save as
- You can change the default save location from within a MS app ex. MS Word. To do that open MS Word and look for ‘Options’ in the left side pane. If you don’t see ‘Options’ look under ‘More..’. Your version of Office might be different. Once you have the options window open click the ‘Save’ title. The options under ‘Save’ let you browse to and choose your default save location as well as other save preferences.
It seems like many users are having difficulty disabling or removing OneDrive from their Windows systems. But it couldn't be more different for everyone, as everyone could have different configurations. As a final comment in this forum, I would like to provide some additional information and possible solutions based on the problems addressed::
1. For users unable to find gpedit.msc or experiencing errors with Method 1:
- Ensure that you're using a Windows edition that includes the Group Policy Editor. It's typically available in Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions, but not in Windows Home.
- If you're using Windows Home or another edition without gpedit.msc, you can try using the Registry Editor method (Method 2) or consider alternative solutions provided by Microsoft or third-party tools.
2. For users unable to locate the registry key in Method 2:
- It's possible that the registry key may have been renamed or relocated in newer Windows versions or updates. You can try searching for alternative keys related to OneDrive or consult Microsoft documentation or forums for updated instructions.
- Additionally, ensure that you're accessing the correct registry hive (HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT) and that you have the necessary permissions to make changes.
3. For users on Windows 11 encountering issues:
- Windows 11 may have different settings or configurations compared to previous versions, which could affect the removal of OneDrive. Ensure that any instructions or solutions you're following are specific to Windows 11.
- Consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or consulting Windows 11-specific resources for assistance with disabling or removing OneDrive.
4. Consider alternative approaches:
- If built-in methods like Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor prove ineffective, you can explore third-party uninstaller tools designed to remove software more thoroughly. Tools like Revo Uninstaller or IObit Uninstaller may help in removing stubborn software remnants.
- Another option is to explore cloud storage alternatives that better suit your needs and preferences. There are many cloud storage providers available, offering various features and pricing plans.
5. Express feedback to Microsoft:
- If you're dissatisfied with changes or defaults imposed by Microsoft, consider providing feedback through official channels such as the Feedback Hub or Microsoft Community forums. Microsoft values user feedback and may consider it in future updates or revisions.
Ultimately, resolving issues with OneDrive removal or disabling may require a combination of troubleshooting steps, careful navigation of system settings, and potentially seeking assistance from Microsoft Support.
Note:
- Thank you all for your contribution. However, it's important to note that each user should post their own inquiries separately rather than adding additional questions within an existing post. This helps maintain clarity the conversation. Please feel free to create a new post for any additional questions you may have. Thank you for your understanding.
- Any third-party products or information I have provided are for reference only.
- I'm a simple user like most people here in the forum. I am not an employee of Microsoft and in no way indirectly. My knowledge and information are without guarantee and only serve to provide support insofar as they can be helpful. Help to be helped.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
Has anyone tried this?
REG delete "HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run" /f /v "OneDrive"
If you have uninstalled OneDrive but it’s still showing up as an option when you use the "Save As" dialog, it's likely because OneDrive integration with Windows is still active, and the uninstallation didn't fully remove all components. To completely disable OneDrive and remove it from the "Save As" options, you can follow these steps:
Method 1: Disable OneDrive Integration
- Press Win + R: This will open the Run dialog.
- Type "gpedit.msc" and press Enter: This will open the Group Policy Editor.
- Navigate to "Computer Configuration" > "Administrative Templates" > "Windows Components" > "OneDrive".
- Find the policy called "Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage".
- Double-click on the policy to open its properties.
- Select "Enabled" to disable OneDrive integration.
- Click "Apply" and then "OK".
Method 2: Modify the Windows Registry
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type "regedit" and press Enter to open the Windows Registry Editor.
- Navigate to "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}".
- Right-click on this key and choose "Export". Save it to your computer as a backup.
- Delete the key (folder) "{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}".
- Restart your computer.
After performing either of these methods, OneDrive should no longer appear in the "Save As" dialog or any file dialog in Windows.
Please note that editing the Windows Registry and Group Policy can be sensitive operations, and making incorrect changes can affect your system. Make sure to follow the steps carefully, and it is a good practice to back up your system or registry before making any changes. If you are not comfortable with these steps, you may want to seek assistance from someone with more experience in managing Windows settings. The proposed solutions are untested. The text and steps were edited with the help of AI.
My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!
Hope this will help you.
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This will help all forum participants.
- Type "gpedit.msc" and press Enter: This will open the Group Policy Editor.
wanna bet?
Not true as of 2024.05.12, when MS Win11 responds with:
"Windows cannot find 'gpedit.msc'. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again."
... which is also a time suck.To All Users Concerned about OneDrive Issues:
I understand the frustration many of you are experiencing with OneDrive integration on your Windows systems. It is clear that OneDrive behaves differently for each user, depending on various factors such as operating system versions, system configurations, and individual preferences.
Before delving into specific solutions, it's important to note that the effectiveness of any method can vary based on factors such as your operating system version, software configurations, network and individual preferences and settings. Additionally, it's plausible that some of the challenges you're encountering might stem from OneDrive bugs or inconsistencies, which could necessitate further investigation by Microsoft.
I will try to address the common concerns raised here and provide some guidance based on the information available.
- Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc): Many users have reported difficulties accessing the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) to disable OneDrive integration. This might be due to different Windows editions or system configurations. If gpedit.msc is not available on your system, it could be because you're using a Windows edition that doesn't include it, such as Windows Home. In such cases, alternative methods like modifying the registry or using third-party uninstaller tools may be necessary. Example: In Windows 11, the Group Policy Editor is not included in the Home edition, and even in other editions, it is not as easily accessible as it once was.
- Registry Modification: Some users have attempted to modify the Windows Registry to disable OneDrive but couldn't locate the specific registry keys mentioned in the instructions. It's possible that registry keys may vary between Windows versions or updates. Please ensure that you're following instructions specific to your version of Windows and exercise caution when making registry changes.
- Windows 11 Compatibility: For users on Windows 11, certain methods or settings may differ from previous Windows versions. It's essential to verify the compatibility of solutions with Windows 11 and consult updated resources or Microsoft Support for Windows 11-specific assistance.
- Personal Preferences and Options: Some users have expressed a desire to retain the option to save to OneDrive but want to prevent it from being the default save location. This preference may vary among users, and adjusting default save locations within individual applications like Microsoft Word can be a workaround.
- Seeking Microsoft Support: If you have exhausted all available solutions and still encounter issues with OneDrive, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for personalized assistance. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific setup and may offer insights or solutions not found elsewhere.
- Alternative Solutions: Consider exploring alternative cloud storage options or third-party uninstaller tools if OneDrive continues to pose challenges.
Here are some Third-Party Uninstaller Tools (are for reference only).
Revo Uninstaller: Revo Uninstaller is a popular and reliable tool for removing stubborn software and remnants from your system. It offers advanced scanning and removal features to ensure thorough uninstallation.
Link: Revo Uninstaller
Obit Uninstaller: IObit Uninstaller is another well-known uninstaller tool that can help you remove unwanted programs, including OneDrive, from your computer. It offers batch uninstallation, deep scanning, and other useful features.
Link: IObit Uninstaller
Geek Uninstaller: Geek Uninstaller is a lightweight and portable uninstaller tool that prioritizes simplicity and efficiency. It can help you remove OneDrive and other software quickly and easily.
Link: Geek Uninstaller
Bulk Crap Uninstaller (BCUninstaller): BCUninstaller is an open-source uninstaller tool that specializes in batch uninstallation and thorough cleaning of your system. It can help you remove OneDrive and other unwanted software with ease.
Link: Bulk Crap Uninstaller (BCUninstaller)
Wise Program Uninstaller: Wise Program Uninstaller is a user-friendly uninstaller tool that offers safe and complete removal of programs, including built-in scanning for leftover files and registry entries.
Link: Wise Program Uninstaller
Please remember that while I strive to provide some guidance, individual experiences may vary, and solutions may not apply universally. It is important to approach troubleshooting with caution and if necessary, consider seeking professional assistance.
Lastly, I appreciate everyone's contributions to this discussion, but I must clarify that my involvement in this conversation ends here. As I already mentioned I am a simply user like the most here in this forum.
*Please click on the links included, there is information that may be of great use to the user.
Note that these methods may not be complete or permanent and OneDrive may be reactivated after a Windows update. There is no guarantee that these workarounds will work properly as they may be affected by future updates or changes in Windows.
Best regards
Thanks for the suggestions.
I used the first method but, in total contradiction of what the policy setting claims to control, MSWord still wants to impose Onedrive as the default save location. Ridiculous.
One /Drive is a money making machine for Microsoft, I had same proble. Microsoft blocked my email stating FULL as due to One Drive, which I blocked since November 2023. i had to fork out for subscription to re use my email address.
moving now to old yahoo and gmail.
- Hi NikolinoDE - I have the same issue - I'm on Windows 11, version 22H2. I went to gpedit as advised above but I don't have a folder called "Computer Configuration" to navigate to- do you know if there may be a different name for it?
PS - I hope MS tech team reads this: I am so so tired of Windows 11 changing my system without notice - every time they change a setting it costs me money - at least when it's new to me - last month it kept defaulting urls to open in Edge - which I don't want - and it took me ages and ages to try and find the problem. Eventually I paid my IT support service £36 to find it for me. Please stop pushing Microsoft defaults on us!Any more on this please, anyone? I have just realised this thread is addressing Windows 11 Pro users whereas I have Windows Home. So probably that means I am stuck with this. Grrrr!
