3 Ways to Remove OneDrive Shortcut from File Explorer in Windows 11

In Windows 11, Microsoft OneDrive is tightly integrated into the system, providing cloud storage solutions right from the File Explorer. While OneDrive can be a great tool for managing files across multiple devices, some users prefer to remove its shortcut from File Explorer for a cleaner interface. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to remove the OneDrive shortcut from File Explorer in Windows 11.

If you’re looking to declutter your File Explorer or just don’t use OneDrive, here are three methods you can try:

1. Unlink OneDrive Account

Unlinking your OneDrive account from Windows 11 will remove the OneDrive shortcut from File Explorer. This method essentially disconnects OneDrive from your PC without deleting your files from the cloud.

Steps:

1. Open the OneDrive Settings:
   • Click the OneDrive icon in the taskbar notification area (near the clock).
   • In the OneDrive menu, click on the Settings (gear) icon.
2. Unlink OneDrive:
   • In the settings window, go to the Account tab.
   • Click the Unlink this PC option.
   • Confirm the action by following the prompts.
3. Restart File Explorer:
   • After unlinking OneDrive, restart your PC or open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), right-click on Windows Explorer, and choose Restart to refresh File Explorer.

After these steps, the OneDrive shortcut will no longer appear in File Explorer, as OneDrive will be disconnected from your computer.

2. Modify the Registry Editor

If you’re comfortable with modifying Windows’ system settings, you can manually remove the OneDrive shortcut from File Explorer using the Registry Editor. This method involves editing a system file, so proceed with caution and back up your registry before making changes.

Steps:

1. Open Registry Editor:
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type regedit and press Enter.
2. Navigate to the OneDrive Registry Key:
   • In the Registry Editor, go to:
     objectivec

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     HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\

   • Look for a folder that starts with {018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}, which corresponds to the OneDrive shortcut.
3. Delete the OneDrive Registry Key:
   • Right-click the folder that starts with the above ID and select Delete.
   • Confirm the action when prompted.
4. Restart File Explorer:
   • As with the first method, restart File Explorer by rebooting your PC or restarting Windows Explorer from Task Manager.

After performing these steps, the OneDrive shortcut should be permanently removed from File Explorer.

3. Use Group Policy Editor (Pro Version Only)

For users running Windows 11 Pro, you can use the Group Policy Editor to disable OneDrive integration with File Explorer. This is a more direct and safer way to remove the OneDrive shortcut, especially if you’re managing multiple computers.

Steps:

1. Open Group Policy Editor:
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
2. Navigate to OneDrive Settings:
   • In the Group Policy Editor, go to:
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     Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > OneDrive

3. Disable OneDrive in File Explorer:
   • In the right pane, find and double-click “Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage”.
   • Select Enabled and click OK.
4. Restart Your Computer:
   • After making the change, restart your PC to apply the policy. This should remove the OneDrive shortcut from File Explorer.

Conclusion

Removing the OneDrive shortcut from File Explorer in Windows 11 is simple and can be done through different methods. Whether you prefer unlinking your account, tweaking the registry, or using the Group Policy Editor, these solutions will help you keep your File Explorer more streamlined and customized to your needs.

If you decide you want OneDrive back, you can always reverse these changes at any time.