replacement computer- desktop looks different

Question

We are replacing computers and when we login to OneDrive we are expecting the folders and files that were on the original pc to appear on the new pc. They are not. How can we default the new computers to show all of the user's files/folders that were on the old desktop

Answer 1

Dear Cathi,

Thanks for replying.

From the icon on the left-corner of each folder (cloud and tick icon), they look like you have synced those to your OneDrive.

May I know if you have setup folder backup on your new computer? Once you enable folder back on your new device, you should start seeing desktop folders from your old computer, to do so, right-click on OneDrive cloud icon on your system tray, click Backup (or AutoSave) tab, click Manage backup as shown below.

If you need any help, let me know.

Thanks,

Neha

Answer 2

Thank you for answering so quickly:

I am not physically at the computer, but let me add more information.

Example: I have the following on my original computer:

+

But if I login to a new computer, none of these appear on my desktop-- they ARE all in my OneDrive and accessible (both thru file explorer and browser). So why wouldn't they appear on a new pc if I'm using my same login? This is OneDrive for Business

Answer 3

Dear Cathi,

Greetings! Thank you for posting in the Microsoft forum.

May I know when you say “OneDrive”, are you referring to OneDrive for browser or sync app on your Windows computer?

Before you see any content on your new computer, ensure the data is visible in OneDrive for browser. To confirm, go to Office 365 portal and sign in with your work or school account, if required, click OneDrive tile from app launcher (shown below) and check if you can access your files/folders that you wanted to see on the new computer.

Besides, you mentioned “desktop looks different”, may I know if you are referring to folder such as Desktop, Document and Pictures. If so, you need to set up the folder backup on your new computer. To know how, see Back up your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive

If you still need help, please provide us with the following information:

1. May I know whether you are storing your files in personal OneDrive or OneDrive for business?
2. Could you please provide some related screenshots showing what exactly you are referring to?
3. Do you see the file/folder in browser that you wish to see on you new computer?

If my understanding above is not consistent with yours, you can also post back and point that out.

Your understanding and patience will be highly appreciated. I hope that you are keeping safe and well!

Sincerely,

Neha | Microsoft Community Moderator