OneDrive folder backup Archives

Winsage

September 8, 2025

Is OneDrive sending all your Windows files to the cloud? Here’s why – and what you can do

When setting up a new Windows PC or completing a feature update, user data files may be relocated to the cloud, particularly when signing in with a Microsoft account on Windows 10 or 11. This creates a OneDrive folder that can lead to confusion regarding file backup, as it differs from traditional backup methods. Users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions receive 1 TB or 100 GB of OneDrive storage, while free accounts only have 5 GB. Adjusting File Explorer settings can result in cluttered views and potential duplication of folders. Users can manage OneDrive folder backup by turning it off completely or using it selectively to stay within storage limits. Microsoft's documentation on OneDrive is noted to be insufficient.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

I have a lot of Windows PCs, and these are my 6 tips for managing multiple Windows PCs at home

To manage multiple Windows 11 PCs effectively, consider the following practices: 1. Use Windows Backup to back up settings and app lists to the cloud, simplifying device setup and restoration. A Microsoft account is required for this feature. 2. Disable OneDrive folder backups to avoid complications from limited free storage and syncing issues. 3. Utilize the Windows Package Manager (winget) to manage applications across devices by exporting and importing lists of installed apps. 4. Enable nearby sharing in the Settings app to transfer files between devices without internet reliance. 5. Use a software KVM, like Microsoft's Mouse Without Borders, to control multiple PCs with a single keyboard and mouse. 6. Implement a remote desktop tool, such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, for remote access and control of other PCs.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

Microsoft Documents How Windows Backup Will Help You Migrate to a New PC

Microsoft is introducing a new feature called “Transfer information to a new PC” within the Windows Backup utility for Windows 10 and 11. This feature allows users to automatically transfer files, settings, and preferences from an old PC to a new one. It is currently available for users who sign in with a Microsoft account and requires both PCs to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Users will launch Windows Backup on the old PC, select the transfer option, choose the destination PC, enter a one-time code, and select the data to be transferred. The transfer supports all files, including documents, photos, videos, and personalization settings. However, it does not include system and OS files, files stored in OneDrive, installed applications, saved passwords, or data on BitLocker-encrypted drives, which must be decrypted beforehand.

Winsage

September 25, 2024

Is OneDrive messing with your files? How to get your Windows storage under control

When setting up a new Windows PC with a Microsoft account, users may find their data files relocated to OneDrive, which can lead to confusion. Upon creating a user account, standard folders (Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Music, and Videos) are generated on the system drive. If users choose to back up files during the setup process, new versions of these folders are created within the OneDrive directory, and their locations are reset to point to OneDrive. This means files originally stored locally are now found in OneDrive folders. Users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions have 1 TB of storage, while free accounts have only 5 GB, which can quickly fill up. To manage file storage, users can subscribe to Microsoft 365, disable OneDrive folder backup, or adopt a hybrid approach by backing up local folders while keeping older files separate.

Winsage

July 8, 2024

How to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account, and tricks to avoid a Microsoft account

Microsoft has updated a webpage detailing how to manage a Windows account, including instructions on switching from a Microsoft account to a local account. The information was initially removed but has now been restored without explanation. Despite Microsoft's preference for Microsoft accounts, workarounds exist for setting up a local account in Windows 11. Users should have the option to choose their preferred type of account without having to resort to tricks.

Winsage

June 30, 2024

Microsoft caught turning on automatic OneDrive folder backup in Windows 11

Microsoft has automatically enabled OneDrive folder backup without asking for permission, causing folders like Desktop Pictures, Documents, Music, and Videos to sync to a user's OneDrive account.

Winsage

June 25, 2024

Microsoft Privacy FAIL: Windows 11 Silently Backs Up to OneDrive

Windows 11 is automatically enabling OneDrive folder backup without asking for permission, which is seen as a shady trick by Microsoft.