Completely Uninstalling OneDrive and Removing It from File Explorer in Windows 10

Removing OneDrive from your Windows 10 system can be a complex process, but following these detailed steps will ensure that the application is completely uninstalled and removed from File Explorer. This guide will walk you through each necessary step for a thorough removal, while also explaining why you might want to do this and the best tools to use.

Why Would You Want to Remove OneDrive?

OneDrive may seem like a useful cloud storage tool, but there are certain situations where you might want to remove it entirely. Perhaps you don't need cloud storage, or you want to free up system resources. While OneDrive is indeed useful and takes up very little space, there are instances where it can be a source of privacy concerns or bloat. This guide provides a detailed process to remove it completely.

Step-by-Step Guide to Uninstalling OneDrive

Step 1: Unlink OneDrive

Open OneDrive: Click on the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen. Settings: Click on the gear icon to open the settings. Account Tab: In the Account tab, click on 'Unlink this PC'. This action will stop syncing your files.

Step 2: Uninstall OneDrive

Open Settings: Press the Windows key I to open the Settings app. Apps: Click on 'Apps'. Apps Features: In the left pane, select 'Apps features'. Find OneDrive: Scroll down or use the search bar to find 'Microsoft OneDrive'. Uninstall: Click on OneDrive, then click the 'Uninstall' button. Confirm any prompts that appear.

Step 3: Remove OneDrive from File Explorer

Registry Editor: Press Windows key R, type 'regedit', and press Enter to open the Registry Editor. Registry Path: Navigate to the following path: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID Find OneDrive: Look for the following keys and delete them: {018C086E-0E4C-4B3D-9B7C-0B4D6B0E2F4C}, {B3A7C8E5-1B73-4CDA-8C14-DBBAE2B8B7D3}, OneDrive, OneDrive for Business Close Registry Editor: After deleting the necessary keys, close the Registry Editor.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

After completing the above steps, restart your computer to apply the changes. After the restart, OneDrive should be completely uninstalled, and it will no longer appear in File Explorer.

Additional Tips and Tools

Be cautious when using the Registry Editor. Deleting the wrong keys can cause system instability. Always consider backing up your registry before making changes.

For a more automated way to remove OneDrive, consider using third-party software. My recommendation is Revo Uninstaller Pro. This software is highly effective in cleaning up the registry and hidden temporary files left behind by OneDrive.

Alternatively, you can stop the OneDrive service from the Settings app. While it won't remove all hidden files, it can be a simpler solution if you're not looking for an absolute removal.

Conclusion

Follow this guide to completely uninstall OneDrive and remove it from File Explorer in Windows 10. By doing so, you can improve system performance and ensure that your system is clean and secure.