Uninstalling OneDrive on PC: Cannot use Desktop anymore

Uninstalling OneDrive from your PC and no longer being able to use the desktop is a common issue. This article will provide a detailed context on the topic, covering key concepts, and offer solutions.

Why Can't I Use My Desktop After Uninstalling OneDrive?

After uninstalling OneDrive, your desktop may not function as expected due to the following reasons:

1. OneDrive creates a hidden folder named OneDrive in the root directory of your user account. When you uninstall OneDrive, the folder isn't removed, and it can cause issues with the desktop.

2. OneDrive may have synchronized the desktop folder to the cloud, making it read-only, which prevents you from modifying the desktop contents.

Solutions

Method 1: Restore Default Properties of the Desktop Folder

1. Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to C:\Users\YourUsername\Desktop.
3. Right-click on the Desktop folder and select Properties.
4. Go to the General tab and click on Restore default settings.
5. Click Apply and then OK.

Method 2: Remove the OneDrive Folder

1. Press Win + R and type cmd. Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

rd /s /q C:\Users\YourUsername\OneDrive

Replace YourUsername with your actual username.

Method 3: Modify the Registry

This method should be used as a last resort, as incorrect modifications can cause system instability.

1. Press Win + R and type regedit. Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Registry Editor as an administrator.
2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced.
3. Right-click on an empty space and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it DisableLinkToOneDriveFolder.
4. Double-click on the newly created DWORD and set its value to 1. Click OK.
5. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

References

1. Microsoft Support: Sync issues with OneDrive for work or school
2. How-To Geek: How to Remove OneDrive from Windows 10
3. TechNet: Registry Virtualization