Microsoft has quietly made a change to the initial setup process of Windows 11, enabling automatic folder backup to OneDrive without notifying users. When setting up Windows 11, users are prompted to sign in with a Microsoft account, making it challenging to install the operating system with a local account.
After installation, users may receive notifications reminding them to back up their PC, related to OneDrive. New installations of Windows 11 automatically activate the OneDrive folder backup feature, uploading Desktop Pictures, Documents, Music, and Videos directories to the cloud without user consent.
Automatic Folder Backup: Convenience or Concern?
If users have a significant amount of data in their folders, they may quickly reach the 5GB storage limit, potentially leading them to consider upgrading to a Microsoft 365 plan. Microsoft has been aggressive in promoting OneDrive, including adding notifications in the Start Menu and testing new ways to engage users with the service.
To opt out of OneDrive’s folder backup, users can navigate to the app’s Settings, select Sync and backup, and manage which folders to back up to the cloud storage service. However, the inability to select specific local folders for backup remains a limitation.
User Experience and Future Updates
As Windows 11 continues to evolve, the automatic folder backup to OneDrive raises concerns about user experience and potential issues when the operating system is updated. Despite the convenience of cloud storage, the lack of control over which folders are backed up may be a point of frustration for some users.
While some may appreciate the seamless integration and automatic protection of their files, others might find the lack of transparency and control over their data unsettling. The balance between convenience and user autonomy will likely be a critical factor as Microsoft continues to refine Windows 11 and its associated services.
