Removing OneDrive from File Explorer in Windows 11 can streamline your navigation and reduce clutter if you’re not using Microsoft’s cloud storage. The process involves tweaking your system settings, but don’t worry—it’s pretty straightforward. By following a few simple steps, you can make OneDrive disappear from your File Explorer, making your file management a breeze.
How to Remove OneDrive from File Explorer Windows 11
Here’s how you can remove OneDrive from your File Explorer, making your interface cleaner and easier to use.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit enter.
The Registry Editor is like the control room for your Windows settings. By accessing it, you’ll be able to make changes that affect how OneDrive appears on your system.
Step 2: Navigate to OneDrive Key
Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID and find {018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}.
This folder, known as a key, holds specific settings related to OneDrive’s appearance in File Explorer. Finding it is crucial to making the necessary adjustments.
Step 3: Modify System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree
Double-click System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree and change the value to 0.
This small tweak tells Windows to hide OneDrive from File Explorer. It’s like turning off a light switch—suddenly, OneDrive’s presence vanishes.
Step 4: Close Registry Editor
Exit the Registry Editor to save your changes.
Once you’ve made your change, closing the editor ensures that your settings are locked in. It’s like sealing an envelope after writing a letter.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Reboot your PC to apply the changes.
A restart might feel like a chore, but it’s the final step to make sure everything takes effect. It’s like rebooting your brain after a nap—everything starts fresh.
After you complete these steps, OneDrive will no longer appear in your File Explorer. It’ll be out of sight, making your file management cleaner and less cluttered.
Tips for Removing OneDrive from File Explorer Windows 11
- Back up your registry before making changes to avoid potential mishaps.
- Double-check the key path to ensure you’re modifying the correct setting.
- Consider disabling OneDrive via Group Policy for a more comprehensive removal.
- If you need OneDrive later, you can easily reverse the steps.
- Keep your Windows updated to ensure compatibility with these changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I uninstall OneDrive instead?
Yes, you can uninstall OneDrive through the Apps & features settings, but it may still appear in File Explorer unless you modify the registry.
Will this affect my OneDrive files?
No, removing OneDrive from File Explorer doesn’t delete any files stored in OneDrive.
Can I re-enable OneDrive later?
Yes, simply change the registry value back to 1 to make OneDrive visible again.
Is it safe to modify the registry?
Yes, but make sure to follow the steps carefully and back up your registry before making changes.
Do I need admin rights to do this?
Yes, administrative privileges are required to modify the registry.
Summary
- Open Registry Editor.
- Navigate to OneDrive Key.
- Modify System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree.
- Close Registry Editor.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Removing OneDrive from File Explorer in Windows 11 offers a cleaner and more personalized computing experience. Think of it as decluttering your workspace—sometimes less is more. By following these steps, you can tailor your system to better meet your needs. If you’re curious about other ways to tweak your Windows settings, there are plenty of resources and forums to explore. Whether OneDrive is your go-to cloud storage or just another icon on your screen, knowing how to control its presence can be empowering. Take control of your Windows environment and customize it to suit you best. Happy exploring!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.