How to Uninstall OneDrive on Windows, Mac and Phone

Sometimes turning OneDrive off isn't enough and you want it gone, whether it's to free up a cluttered computer, switch to another cloud service or fix a sync problem with a clean reinstall. Removing it's quick on every device. Before you start, it helps to know which OneDrive app is on your computer, because there can be two, and only one of them syncs your files.

First, make sure you won't lose anything

Microsoft says you won't lose files or data by uninstalling OneDrive, because you can always reach them by signing in to OneDrive.com. The app is just the bridge between your computer and your online storage. What changes is that your OneDrive folder stops syncing. If you keep files that exist only on your PC inside the OneDrive folder, copy them somewhere else first so you have a local copy you can work with.

Which OneDrive do you have?

App name in your list	What it does
Microsoft OneDrive	The backup and sync app that keeps your files in step with the cloud
OneDrive by Microsoft Corporation	A Microsoft Store app for viewing your OneDrive; it doesn't back up or sync

Microsoft says you may have one or both installed, and that's fine. If you're trying to stop syncing, the one to remove is Microsoft OneDrive.

Uninstall OneDrive on Windows 10 or 11

1. Select the Start button and type Programs.
2. Select Add or remove programs from the results.
3. Under Apps & features, find and select Microsoft OneDrive.
4. Select Uninstall.
5. If Windows asks for an administrator password or confirmation, provide it.

If the Uninstall option isn't there, your version of Windows has OneDrive built in. Microsoft says it can't be uninstalled on some versions, including Windows 8.1, but you can unlink it and hide the folder so it stays out of your way. I've covered those steps in my guide to turning OneDrive off.

Uninstall OneDrive on a Mac

Microsoft's instruction for Mac is wonderfully short: just drag the OneDrive app to the Trash. Quit OneDrive from the menu bar first, so it isn't running while you remove it.

Uninstall OneDrive on Android

1. Open your app list.
2. Tap and hold the OneDrive icon to show the menu.
3. Choose to uninstall the app.

Uninstall OneDrive on iPhone or iPad

1. Go to the Home Screen and tap and hold the OneDrive icon.
2. Tap the option to remove or delete the app and confirm.

Reinstalling to fix sync problems

If you're uninstalling because OneDrive is misbehaving, a reinstall is often the cure. Microsoft says reinstalling can resolve sync issues and resets all OneDrive settings, and the app then performs a full sync. On Windows, uninstall as above, then download Microsoft OneDrive from the OneDrive website, open the file and sign in.

Two things to redo afterwards. If you'd chosen to sync only some folders, Microsoft says you'll need to choose them again once the sync finishes. And if you use a work or school account, set that up again too. On an iPhone, Microsoft's reset tip is to delete the app, do a soft reset by holding the Sleep/Wake and Home buttons together for at least 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears, then reinstall from the App Store. Newer iPhones without a Home button restart differently, so use your phone's own restart method.

Older computers

If you're on an old machine, check whether OneDrive even supports it. Microsoft says support for its desktop apps on Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 ended on January 1, 2022. If you're running one of those, uninstalling the old app and using OneDrive.com in a browser is the safer route.

After uninstalling: where your files live

Your files are still in the cloud at OneDrive.com, ready to download whenever you need them. If you're moving to another service, download what you need, then upload it to the new home. If you work with clients or a team, read why manual file sharing becomes a risk as you grow before you settle on a new setup. And if you're switching to Google, my guide to transferring ownership in Google Drive covers how shared files behave there.

Uninstall or just unlink?

If you're not sure you want it gone forever, unlinking is the lighter touch. It stops syncing straight away and leaves the app in place, so you can sign back in later without downloading anything. Uninstalling makes sense when you've switched to another service, when the app keeps causing problems, or when you're handing the computer to someone else and want a clean slate. Either way, your files stay safe online.

My verdict

On Windows, Add or remove programs, Microsoft OneDrive, Uninstall. On a Mac, drag it to the Trash. On a phone, remove the app like any other. Your files stay safe at OneDrive.com. If there's no uninstall option, your Windows has OneDrive built in, so unlink and hide it instead.

Frequently asked questions

Will uninstalling OneDrive delete my files?

No. Microsoft says you won't lose files or data. They remain available when you sign in at OneDrive.com.

Why can't I uninstall OneDrive?

OneDrive is built in to some versions of Windows, such as Windows 8.1, and can't be uninstalled. You can unlink and hide it instead.

How do I uninstall OneDrive on a Mac?

Quit OneDrive, then drag the OneDrive app to the Trash.

Does reinstalling OneDrive fix sync problems?

Often, yes. Microsoft says reinstalling can resolve sync issues and resets all OneDrive settings.

Why are there two OneDrive apps on my computer?

Microsoft OneDrive syncs your files, while OneDrive by Microsoft Corporation from the Store only lets you view them. You may have both.