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How can I delete my OneDrive storage (built into Windows) from the internet without deleting my Microsoft account?

Costa Shu 0 Reputation points
2025-10-06T22:52:37.6+00:00

Hello,

I use the version of OneDrive that comes with Windows 11 (not Microsoft 365). I need to completely delete its cloud storage from the internet, including any elements that are not visible in the user interface. I do not intend to delete my Microsoft account, as it contains licenses.

How can I proceed with full deletion?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage
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  1. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,155 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-07T01:18:47.3766667+00:00

    I understand, but unfortunately it is not possible. You can't delete OneDrive storage itself, it is part of the Microsoft account.

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  1. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,155 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-06T23:38:44.09+00:00

    Hi, I'm Rodrigo and I will help you.
    Firstly, make sure OneDrive is disconnected on the local computer, otherwise your local files can be synced and deletes when you delete the files from OneDrive in the cloud.

    Right-click the OneDrive icon in the taskbar > Settings > Account > Unlink This PC > Unlink Account.

    After unlinking the account, access https://onedrive.live.com/ and delete the files there, make sure to access the Recycle Bin in the left of the page and delete the files there too.

    If you want to delete other cloud information like synced Windows settings, access the Microsoft Account Devices page https://account.microsoft.com/devices and select "Clear stored settings" under "Cloud synced settings" located at the bottom of the page.

    1 person found this answer helpful.
  2. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,155 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-07T00:59:25.69+00:00

    Did you delete the files from the Recycle Bin? What do you see that indicates that the storage wasn't cleared? Some changes take some time to reflect the actual storage.

  3. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,155 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-07T00:47:06.3133333+00:00

    If you only need to delete OneDrive storage, the procedure is the one stated above, the one you said you did.

  4. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,155 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-07T00:40:36.8733333+00:00

    This last step deletes settings synced to the cloud, it is not related to OneDrive. The Outlook webmail storage is attached to OneDrive storage. If you are looking for more things to delete, you can see there

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