Microsoft's Quiet Rollout of Automatic Folder Backup in OneDrive for Windows 11 Users
In a move that has caught many by surprise, Microsoft has quietly enabled the automatic folder backup feature in OneDrive for Windows 11 users. This change, which was implemented without any formal announcement, alters the initial setup process of Windows 11 to automatically turn on folder backup without user consent.
For those setting up a new Windows computer while connected to the internet and signed into a Microsoft account, OneDrive will now begin syncing content from folders such as Desktop, Pictures, Documents, Music, and Videos right from the start. This could lead to desktops and other folders being cluttered with shortcuts and green checkmarks next to files immediately after a clean installation of Windows 11.
The automatic folder backup feature in OneDrive can be incredibly useful when activated intentionally by the user. However, Microsoft's decision to enable it by default has led to a wave of confusion and frustration among users, as evidenced by numerous Reddit posts questioning the sudden appearance of these green checkmarks.
If you prefer not to have your desktop or other folders backed up automatically, you can disable this feature by following these steps:
- Right-click the OneDrive icon in the tray area, click the settings icon, and then press Settings.
- Navigate to the "Sync and Backup" tab and click "Manage backup."
- Turn off all the folders you do not want to back up in OneDrive and confirm the changes.
For users with an older OneDrive version featuring the classic tabbed interface, the process is slightly different:
- Go to the Backup tab and click Manage Backup > Stop backup > Stop backup.
This isn't the first time Microsoft has employed such tactics with its software. Just a few months ago, users noticed that OneDrive required an explanation before it could be closed—a change that was eventually reversed. Similarly, Microsoft’s Edge browser prompted users to explain why they were downloading Chrome.
While these changes might be seen as attempts to streamline user experience or promote their own services, they often lead to frustration among users who prefer more control over their systems. As always, if OneDrive's automatic features become too cumbersome, you have the option to uninstall it entirely.
