How to set up OneDrive on Windows 11

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Windows 11 24H2
You will need
Microsoft account, Stable internet connection

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open the OneDrive application

    Click the Start button and type OneDrive into the search bar. Select the OneDrive app from the search results to launch the setup wizard.

    Note: If the app is not installed, download the official installer from the Microsoft website.
  2. 1 min

    Sign in to your Microsoft account

    Enter your Microsoft account email address into the setup window and click Sign in. Provide your password or complete the two-factor authentication prompt if required.

  3. 1 min

    Select the OneDrive folder location

    The installer will prompt you to choose the location for your OneDrive folder. Accept the default path in your User profile or click Change location to select a different drive or directory.

    Note: Choosing a drive with sufficient free space is essential for syncing large libraries.
  4. 45 sec

    Choose folders to back up

    Select the checkboxes for Desktop, Documents, and Pictures to enable continuous backup of these folders to the cloud. Click Start backup to commit your selections.

    Note: Files in these folders will now sync automatically whenever you are connected to the internet.
  5. 30 sec

    Complete the setup

    Follow the remaining on-screen prompts regarding mobile app integration and storage overview. Click Open my OneDrive folder to begin using the service immediately.

    Note: Files available in the cloud but not on your local drive will show a blue cloud icon status.