Windows 11 now automatically enables backup of OneDrive folders without asking permission

Microsoft has made OneDrive slightly more annoying for Windows 11 users. Quietly and without any announcement, the company has changed the initial configuration of Windows 11 so that it can enable automatic folder backup without asking for it.

Now, those who set up a new Windows computer the way Microsoft wants it (in other words, connected to the Internet and signed into a Microsoft account) will access their desktop with OneDrive already syncing items from folders like Desktop Pictures, Documents, Music. , and Videos. Depending on how much is stored there, you might end up with a desktop and other folders filled to the brim with shortcuts to various items right after completing a fresh installation of Windows.

Automatic folder backup in OneDrive is a very useful feature when used correctly and when the user deliberately activates it. However, Microsoft decided that sending a few notification prompts to enable folder backup wasn’t enough, so it simply enabled the feature without asking anyone or even informing users, resulting in a flood of posts on Reddit about users complaining about what’s happening. are those green checkmarks next to files and shortcuts on their desktop.

If you don’t want your computer to back up everything on your desktop or other folders, here’s how to disable the feature (you can also set Windows 11 to offline mode):

1. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the status bar area, click the settings icon, and then tap Settings.
2. Go to the “Sync & Backup” tab and click “Manage Backup”.
3. Disable any folders you don’t want backed up in OneDrive and confirm the changes.
4. If you have an older version of OneDrive with the classic tabbed interface, go to the Backup tab and click Manage Backup > Stop Backup > Stop Backup.

Microsoft is no stranger to shady tricks with its software and operating system. Several months ago, we noticed that OneDrive wouldn’t let you close it without you first explaining why (Microsoft later reversed this stupid change). A similar thing was also spotted in the Edge browser, with Microsoft asking users why they downloaded Chrome.

As a reminder, you can always simply uninstall OneDrive and put a stop to this operation.