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Unlinking or uninstalling OneDrive stops the computer’s connection to syncing; neither action by itself deletes files from your OneDrive account. Files already downloaded usually remain in the local OneDrive folder, while online-only files remain available on OneDrive.com but may not be complete files stored on the computer. Deleting files from a folder that is still syncing is different: the deletion can also reach the cloud.
Unlinking, uninstalling and deleting are different actions
| Action | What it does | What happens to files |
|---|---|---|
| Unlink this PC or Mac | Disconnects that computer from OneDrive syncing. | Cloud files are not deleted by unlinking. Downloaded files remain in the local OneDrive folder; changes made while disconnected can sync after you relink. (Microsoft Support) |
| Uninstall the OneDrive app | Removes the desktop sync app and stops syncing on that computer. | Uninstalling does not itself delete files from OneDrive online. The account remains accessible on the web. (Microsoft Support) |
| Delete a file in a synced OneDrive folder | Removes the file from the folder and syncs the change. | The cloud copy can be deleted too. Deleted items normally go to the OneDrive recycle bin, where they may be restored before permanent deletion. (Microsoft Support) |
Microsoft says unlinking and relinking does not lose data; it disconnects local folders from the cloud temporarily. (Unlink and re-link OneDrive)
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What stays on your computer after unlinking?
It depends on whether each item was actually downloaded. Files marked available on this device are stored locally and remain in the OneDrive folder after unlinking. Files marked available when online are online-only: they remain accessible through OneDrive.com, but the computer may hold only a placeholder rather than the complete file. (Microsoft Support)
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Before unlinking or uninstalling, open and verify any files you need without an internet connection, or make a separate backup. An online-only placeholder is not an offline copy. A separate external drive is optional; it is not required to disconnect or remove the OneDrive app. (Microsoft Support)
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How to unlink OneDrive without deleting cloud files
- Windows: Select the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar notification area, open Settings, choose Account, then select Unlink this PC.
- Mac: Select the OneDrive icon in the menu bar, open Preferences, choose Account, then select Unlink this Mac.
- Confirm the prompt. The local folder is disconnected; cloud content is not erased. If you later relink, changes made while unlinked can sync. (Microsoft Support)
Choose the action that matches your goal
Stop syncing but keep the cloud files
Unlink the computer. This disconnects the local folder without deleting your OneDrive account’s files. You can still use OneDrive online.
Remove the app from the computer
Uninstall the OneDrive desktop app using your operating system’s app-removal process. This stops desktop syncing; it does not erase the cloud account’s files. Microsoft’s stop-sync guidance distinguishes unlinking and uninstalling from deleting cloud content. (Microsoft Support)
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Free disk space while retaining cloud files
Use Files On-Demand to keep files in OneDrive without storing every file’s full contents on the computer, or adjust which folders sync. Microsoft notes that folders excluded from sync remain available online. These options avoid deleting cloud files just to save local space. (Microsoft Support; Microsoft Support)
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsKeep a local copy but remove it from OneDrive
Move the file outside the OneDrive folder, then verify that the local copy is where you expect it and that it is no longer in OneDrive. A move or deletion inside a folder that is still syncing can be reflected online. (Microsoft Support)
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Erase files from OneDrive online
Unlink first so the computer is no longer syncing changes, then delete the intended files through OneDrive.com. Deleting them is a separate action from unlinking or uninstalling. Deleted files may be recoverable from the OneDrive recycle bin until they are permanently removed; emptying the bin removes that recovery route. (Microsoft Support)
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Take extra care with shared files and Personal Vault
Before deleting anything, check whether it is shared and whether you own it. Deleting a shared item may make it unavailable to the people it was shared with. If you intend to delete an entire OneDrive, Microsoft’s instructions also call out reviewing shared folders and Personal Vault before proceeding. (Microsoft Support; Microsoft Support)
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Easily store and access 1TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. Reformatting may be required for Mac
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
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- Package Contents: 1* portable hard drive, 1 *USB 3.0 cable, 1*USB to type C adapter，1 *user manual, shell packaging, three-year manufacturer's warranty and free technical support services
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