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Users can now completely opt out of OneDrive backup in Windows 11 for the first time.

This shift in strategy is likely to make many PC users happy.
Microsoft's Changes to OneDrive Usage Likely to Please Many PC Users Photo: Getty Images
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September 1, 2026, 7:17 am | Read time: 1 minute

OneDrive is one of Microsoft’s most controversial services. The often intrusive prompts for cloud backup in Windows 11 have repeatedly drawn criticism. Those who didn’t want to use OneDrive were often only given options like “Remind me later” or “Skip for now” when setting up a new PC. These prompts often reappeared later. However, it seems improvement is on the horizon.

As reported by “WindowsLatest,” Microsoft is currently testing a new full-screen prompt for the initial setup of Windows 11. New is the “Opt out of backup” button. Users can directly decide not to back up their data via OneDrive.

Also of interest: Microsoft releases preview version of Windows 11 26H2

Real Choice Instead of Recurring Prompts

According to the report, the innovation is set to be introduced with Windows 11 Version 25H2. OneDrive remains a practical way to sync and back up files, settings, and other content between devices. At the same time, the new option provides more transparency. Users receive a clearer choice from the start and don’t have to repeatedly decline cloud backup.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TECHBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@techbook.de.

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