Stop Syncing!
Unlink Your Computers from a Microsoft Account

The Problem Understanding the Issue of Computer Synchronization

Sharing a Microsoft account across multiple computers can lead to automatic data synchronization, which isn't always desirable. You may want to prevent files, settings, and app data from syncing between your devices, especially between a new desktop and a laptop.

This guide addresses how to unlink or unsync two computers connected to the same Microsoft account, so you can manage your data and privacy effectively.

Solution 1 Using Different Log-ins

The simplest way to prevent synchronization is to use different Microsoft accounts for each computer. This is the most straightforward method to ensure that files and settings remain separate.

By logging into each computer with a unique Microsoft account, you essentially create distinct digital profiles, eliminating any unwanted data synchronization.

Solution 2 Unlinking OneDrive

If you wish to keep the same Microsoft account but disable syncing, you can unlink OneDrive from one or both computers.

To do this, click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, go to Settings, and choose 'Unlink this PC.' This will stop the synchronization of files within your OneDrive folder.

Alternatively, you can disable syncing specific folders through OneDrive settings: Sync and backup tab > Manage backup > Turn off all folders. This stops synchronization of your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders.

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Regain control of your data by unlinking your computers and customizing your synchronization settings.

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Solution 3 Managing Windows Settings Synchronization

Windows also synchronizes settings. To control this go to: Windows Settings > Accounts > Windows backup and turn off Remember my apps and Remember my preferences to further control syncing. These sync settings can be left on if you want to sync settings.

This ensures that your settings remain independent on each device.