Microsoft Onedrive’s back up up folders on this PC feature may transfer files from system folders to Microsoft cloud servers automatically.
OneDrive is integrated natively into Windows 11. Users who sign-in with a Microsoft account, which Microsoft encourages, get access to OneDrive. File Explorer lists a OneDrive folder and there is an icon in the system tray.
One of the integrated features is the option to back up files to OneDrive automatically. This feature is limited to system folders — Documents, Pictures, Desktop, Music and Videos — similarly to what the new Windows Backup app offers.
These folders are protected when backed up to OneDrive, according to Microsoft.
Tip: the easiest way to stop this is to sign-in to Windows with a local account.
Problems related to OneDrive’s automatic backup feature
In an ideal world, backups would only happen automatically when users give their ok. User reports on the Internet suggest that OneDrive’s backup feature may transfer files without user consent sometimes.
I confirmed this behavior on one of my PCs. I only noticed it because OneDrive’s occupied storage increased from less than 1 Gigabyte to nearly 25 Gigabytes over night. Never enabled automatic backups on the Windows 11 version 22H2 system.
Another issue is related to this. Automatic updates may push files in the cloud that OneDrive may flag. This does not necessarily have to be illegal content; false positives happen, and they may lead to temporary or permanent account bans.
How to manage OneDrive folder backups
Here is a step-by-step guide to manage automatic folder backups:
- Right-click on the OneDrive icon in the System Tray area of Windows.
- Select the Help & Settings icon and then Settings from the menu.
- Under Sync and backup, select Manage backup.
- OneDrive lists the five system folders in the window that opens.
- Toggle one of the folders to Off to stop automatic backups.
- OneDrive displays a “where do you want to keep your files” prompt afterwards. Select “This computer only” and then continue.
- Select OK to confirm the change when the prompt appears.
Selecting this computer only stops automated backups of the selected folder to OneDrive. Repeat the process for all other folders that are set to backup at the time.
The Sync and backup menu’s preference “save photos and videos from devices” lists another automatic backup option. It transfers photos and videos from connected devices, e.g. cameras or smartphones, to OneDrive when enabled.
There is also “save screenshots I capture to OneDrive”, which transfers screenshots to OneDrive.
Closing Words
It appears that OneDrive may sometimes upload files to the cloud automatically on Windows 11 devices. This is a problem as it may lead to all kinds of issues.
Windows 11 users who sign-in with a Microsoft account may want to check the sync settings regularly because of that.