Cloud-based storage is fantastic. You can access your data from any location. But what if you do not want your personal data stored on the cloud? What if you just want all of your personal data stored on your local computer only? If that is the case, here is what you can do if you do not want to use Microsoft OneDrive.

Microsoft OneDrive is an excellent cloud-based storage solution and can be extremely valuable for backing up data. However, the problem I see with my customers is that most novice Windows users don't know what it is or how they ended up using it.

The explanation is simple: When you create a new user in Windows, whether it is when you first start your new computer or add a user, Windows prompts you to log in with a Microsoft account. When that new user logs in, OneDrive is automatically enabled by default.

There are several different ways to get rid of OneDrive from your computer. You can disable it, unlink it from your computer, or completely uninstall it. But when all is said and done, you may have to manually restore your user shell folders to their original locations (more on that later).

How to unlink OneDrive from your user account

1. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the system tray (located at the bottom right corner of the screen).
2. Select Settings from the context menu that appears.
3. In the Microsoft OneDrive dialog box, go to the Account tab.
4. Left-click on the Unlink this PC shortcut.
5. A warning message appears telling you that locally stored files will remain in place while online versions will be deleted. Left-click on the Unlink account button.
6. The Set up OneDrive dialog box should appear. Left-click the X in the upper right-hand corner to close the dialog box.

Now that OneDrive is no longer syncing your data, you can either disable OneDrive from starting or uninstall it. However, you might notice that some of your user shell folders (Desktop, Documents, and Pictures) were not returned to their original locations. We will take a look at those later in this article.

How to disable OneDrive in Windows

1. Right-click on the Start button to bring up the Power User menu.
2. Left-click on Task Manager.

or

1. Press CTRL + ALT + DEL all at the same time.
2. From the security screen that appears, left-click on Task Manager.

or

1. Right-click on an empty area of the Taskbar.
2. On the context menu that appears, left-click on Task Manager.

Sometimes, the first time you run Task Manager, it will only display running apps. You have to left-click the More details arrow to view all the tabs. The location of the tabs varies from Windows 10 (across the top) to Windows 11 (down the left side).

Once the tabs are displayed, left-click on Startup (Windows 10) or Startup apps (Windows 11). From here, all you have to do is highlight OneDrive and select the Enable / Disable button. Restart your computer so the changes take effect.

How to uninstall Microsoft OneDrive

There are two (2) ways to uninstall OneDrive: the Settings app or the Control Panel.

How to uninstall Microsoft OneDrive using the Settings app

Windows 11

1. Left-clicking on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings.
3. In the left-hand column, left-click on Apps.
4. In the right-hand column, left-click on Installed apps.
5. The right-hand column displays a list of all the installed apps. Find Microsoft OneDrive, left-click on the three (3) horizontal dots (...) on the right, and select Uninstall.

Windows 10

1. Left-click on the Start menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
2. Left-click on Apps.
3. In the right-hand column, Apps and features will be displayed. Left-click on Microsoft OneDrive and select Uninstall.

How to uninstall Microsoft OneDrive using the Control Panel

Windows 11

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the upper right-hand corner of the Start menu, left-click on All apps.
3. Scroll down the list of programs and left-click on Windows Tools.
4. Double left-click on the Control Panel.

Windows 10

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. Scroll down the list of programs until you get to Windows System, and then left-click on it to expand it.
3. Left-click on Control Panel.

By default, the Control Panel opens up in the category view but can be changed to large or small icons. A pull-down menu in the top-right corner labeled View by: allows you to change the view.

• If viewing the Control Panel by Category, left-click on Uninstall a program under Programs.
• If viewing by Large/Small Icons, left-click Programs and Features.

A list of all the programs installed will appear. Left-click on Microsoft OneDrive and select the Uninstall button at the top of the list of programs.

How to restore the location of your user shell folders back to default

Now that you have either disabled, unlinked, or uninstalled OneDrive, you must check and see where your user shell folders are located. By default, OneDrive moves your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders to a folder under your user profile (C:\Users\YourUserName\OneDrive).

The easiest way to check is to open File Explorer by left-clicking the manilla folder icon on the Taskbar or pressing the Windows logo key + E. Right-click on any of the Quick access links and left-click on Properties from the context menu that appears. Left-click on the Location tab and check where that folder is located.

If it points to the OneDrive folder inside your user profile (C:\Users\YourUserName\OneDrive), you have two choices: You can leave them right where they are or change them back to default.

While checking the properties of your user shell folders, you can also restore them to their default location(s). Just left-click the Restore Default button in the lower left-hand corner of the folder properties.

You may get a dialog box pop-up that tells you that the folder you are trying to move does not exist in the new location and asks if you want to create it. Just left-click on Yes and proceed to restore the folder its original location.

At this point your user shell folders should be back in their original default location(s). But if you encounter an error when trying to restore your user shell folders, something similar to Can't move the folder because there is a folder in the same location that can't be redirected. Access is denied. then you will need to modify the Registry.

The truth about user shell folders is that they are just entries in the Registry and can be modified using the Registry Editor. But remember that editing the registry incorrectly can cause your computer to not operate correctly and possibly not even boot up, so be very careful when editing the registry.

If you do not feel comfortable editing the registry, don't hesitate to contact a local computer repair shop, like Geeks in Phoenix, for assistance. The first thing you need to do is open the Registry Editor.

Remember that changing the location of user shell folders in the registry does not actually move your files back to that location. You will have to manually move them from the OneDrive folder to the location you specify in the registry.

How to restore the location of your user shell folders using the Registry Editor

1. Bring up the Run dialog box by either:
   Pressing the Windows logo key + R
   or
   Right-click on the Windows logo on the Start Menu or press the Windows logo key + X and then select Run
2. In the Run dialog box that appears, type regedit and select OK. If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Once you open the Registry Editor, let's backup the registry first.

1. With the Registry Editor open, highlight Computer in the left-hand column to backup the complete registry.
2. Left-click on the File pull-down menu and left-click on Export.
3. Select the location and a descriptive file name for the backup file, then left-click on Save.

Now, let's change the location of your user shell folders in the Registry.

1. Verify that the folders you want to redirect to (Desktop, Documents, Pictures, etc.) currently exist inside your user profile folder (C:\Users\YourUserName). If they do not, then you will need to create them before proceeding.
2. With the Registry Editor open, navigate to the following key:
   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders
   
3. In the right-hand column, right-click on the Name of the value you want to change and select Modify... from the context menu.
4. Enter either the default value for that folder from the table below or the path to the actual folder (C:\Users\YourUserName\Documents). Make sure the actual folder exists before changing the folder key.
5. Log off or restart your computer for the registry change(s) to take effect.

Are you looking to boost your productivity on Windows 11? With its sleek design and improved functionality, Windows 11 offers a variety of features and tools that can help you work more efficiently. In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Windows 11 experience while improving your productivity.

Start menu: The Start menu is Windows 11's central hub, and customizing it can help you access your most-used apps and files quickly. You can rearrange, resize, and pin tiles to the Start menu to create a personalized layout that suits your workflow. This can save you time and improve your efficiency by reducing the time spent searching for apps and files.

How to personalize the Start menu in Windows 11

Virtual desktops: One of the most useful features of Windows 11 is the ability to create and manage virtual desktops. This feature allows you to create multiple desktops for different tasks and switch between them easily. For example, you can have one desktop for work-related tasks and another for personal use.

This feature can help you stay focused and organized, reducing distractions and boosting productivity. Additionally, you can set a unique background for each desktop to quickly identify your current desktop.

How to create multiple desktops in Windows 11

1. Left-click on the Task view icon on the Taskbar and select New desktop
2. Open the programs you want to use on that desktop
3. Left-click on the Task view icon again to switch between desktops

How to set the background for a desktop

1. Right-click on the desktop you want to change and select Choose background
2. Choose an image from the recent images or left-click on Browse photos to select an image

Keyboard shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts are a quick and easy way to perform tasks in Windows 11 without having to navigate through menus and options. Learning a few essential keyboard shortcuts can save you time and boost your productivity. For example, press the Windows logo key + D to minimize all windows and go to the desktop, or press the Windows logo key + E to open File Explorer.

Windows logo key shortcuts for Windows 11

My favorite left-hand Windows keyboard shortcuts

You can create keyboard shortcuts for items on your Desktop.

Everything you wanted to know about Windows shortcuts

You can also create custom keyboard shortcuts using the Keyboard Manager app inside the free Microsoft PowerToys.

Free Microsoft PowerToys for Windows 10 and Windows 11

Focus assist: Focus assist is a feature that blocks notifications and alerts while you're working on a task, reducing distractions and helping you stay focused. You can customize Focus assist settings to allow specific notifications or set it to turn on automatically during specific times or when you're presenting. This can help improve your productivity by reducing interruptions and allowing you to focus on the task at hand.

When you enable Focus assist, a timer will appear on the screen, the do not disturb button will turn on, apps in the Taskbar will not flash to get your attention, and badge notifications in the Taskbar will be turned off. There are several ways to start Focus assist in Windows 11.

How to start Focus assist from the Notiification center

1. Left-click on the Notification icon (bell) on the right end of the Taskbar
2. Adjust the length of time if you like, and then left-click on the Focus button.

How to start Focus assist from Settings

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings.
3. Left-click on the System category in the left-hand column.
4. Scroll down the right-hand column and left-click on Focus.

How to start Focus assist from the Clock app

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the upper right-hand corner of the Start menu, left-click on All apps.
3. Scroll down the list of programs and left-click on Clock.

Snap layouts and Snap groups: Windows 11 includes a new feature called Snap layouts and Snap groups that makes it easier to organize and manage multiple windows on your screen. Snap layouts allow you to quickly arrange your windows in predefined layouts, while Snap groups let you save and restore groups of windows for specific tasks. This can help you work more efficiently by reducing the time spent resizing and rearranging windows.

How to open Snap layouts

To open the Snap layout box, select the open program window and do either:

• Press the Windows logo key + Z
  or
• Hover your mouse cursor over the Minimize or Maximize button

When you Snap every space with selected windows, this then becomes a Snap group.

Taskbar: The Taskbar in Windows 11 is more customizable than ever. It lets you pin your most-used apps and files for quick access and show only the apps you need, reducing clutter and improving productivity.

You can also easily add an existing shortcut to the Taskbar by right-clicking on almost any shortcut on the Start menu or Desktop and selecting Pin to taskbar. Additionally, you can use the Taskbar to access the Start menu, search, and virtual desktops, making it a central hub for your workflow.

Widgets: Windows 11 includes a new Widgets feature that provides quick access to news, weather, and other information. You can customize the Widgets to show only the information you need, making them useful tools for staying up-to-date on the latest news and events. This can help improve your productivity by reducing the time spent searching for information.

In conclusion, there are many ways to improve productivity on Windows 11. By using virtual desktops, customizing your Start menu, using keyboard shortcuts, enabling Focus assist, using Snap layouts and Snap groups, utilizing the Taskbar, and using the Widgets feature, you can work more efficiently and get more done in less time. By implementing these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to becoming a Windows 11 power user.

Do you have a program that automatically starts when you log in to Windows that you do not want to do that anymore? Or maybe you have too many programs starting when you log in to Windows? If so, here is how to edit the programs that autostart in Windows.

Autostart programs are a great convenience for users as they allow commonly used programs to start automatically when the computer boots up, saving time and effort. However, these autostart programs can accumulate over time, slowing the bootup process.

Now, there are only two (2) locations that can automatically run a program: the Startup folder and the Registry. There are two (2) types of autostart programs: System-wide or user-specific. And then, there are the different ways to edit the autostart programs.

Now you can edit the autostart programs using a couple of different applications, Task Manager and Autoruns. Task Manager is built into Windows, and Autoruns is a Microsoft utility that must be downloaded (see link below).

With Task Manager and Autoruns, you can toggle on or off any autostart program to test how it will affect the performance of your computer. And with Autoruns, you can even delete items that automatically start.

Task Manager: Task Manager is a built-in tool in Windows that allows users to monitor and manage running processes. To access Task Manager, press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys or right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager. Navigate to the Startup tab to see a list of programs set to autostart. To disable a program from autostarting, right-click on it and select Disable.

Autoruns: Autoruns is a free tool from Microsoft that provides a comprehensive list of all autostart programs, including those from the Startup folder, Registry, Task Scheduler, and other locations.

Autoruns for Windows

Once downloaded, run the program and navigate to the Logon tab to see a list of programs set to autostart. To disable a program from autostarting, uncheck the box next to it. To delete a program, right-click on the entry and select Delete.

You know how to disable, enable, and delete autostart programs, but what if you want to add a program? This requires manually editing either the Startup folder or the Registry.

Startup Folder: The Startup folder is a simple and easy way to add programs to autostart. To access the Startup folder, press the Windows Logo key + R to bring up the Run dialog box. Then type shell:startup and press Enter. This will open the user-specific Startup folder. Or navigate to the following folder in File Explorer (show hidden items must be turned on).

C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

Once you have the user-specific Startup folder open, right-click on an empty space on the right-hand pane, select New > Shortcut, and then navigate to the program to want to autostart. For reference, here is the location for the read-only system-wide Startup folder.

C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\StartUp

Registry: The Registry is a powerful tool that stores configuration settings for Windows and many programs. Improperly editing the Registry can cause your computer to run incorrectly and even fail to boot, so backing up the Registry is recommended before making any changes.

How to backup the Registry in Windows

To access the Registry, press the Windows Logo key + R to bring up the Run dialog box. Then type regedit and press Enter. Navigate to the following key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

This key contains a list of programs set to autostart for the current user. To add a program to autostart, right-click on an empty space in the right-hand pane and select New > String Value. Enter the name of the program and the path to its executable file.

For reference, here is the location for the system-wide Registry key.

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

In conclusion, autostart programs are a great convenience for users but can also slow down the bootup process. Using the tools mentioned in this article, users can easily manage and edit autostart programs from various locations in Windows.

Are you looking for a program to play optical disks (BD, DVD, CD) in Windows? Maybe you are feeling frustrated by having to have multiple media players to handle the various file formats you encounter? If so, you'll be happy to know there's a solution: VLC Media Player.

VLC Media Player is a remarkable media player that can handle a wide range of formats, including MPEG-1/2, DivX® (1/2/3/4/5/6), MPEG-4 ASP, XviD, 3ivX D4, H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC, WMV 1/2/3, QuickTime, RealVideo, and many more. This gives you the flexibility to play just about any media file you come across without the hassle of switching between different players.

But that's not all: VLC Media Player is also highly versatile when it comes to operating systems. Whether you're using Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, Unix, iOS, or Android, there is a version of VLC Media Player for your device. This means you can enjoy your media files on your preferred platform without worrying about compatibility issues.

You can also change the appearance of the VLC Media Player by using skins. There are quite a few skins available for download, or you can create your own with the VLC Skin Editor. Note: Skins do not work on the Mac OS version of VLC.

Another great thing about VLC Media Player is that it's completely free. There are no annoying ads or in-app purchases, so that you can enjoy uninterrupted media playback. VLC Media Player is open-source and produced by the non-profit origination VideoLAN.

In summary, VLC Media Player is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a media player that's both versatile and easy to use. For more information on the VLC Media Player, follow the link below.

VLC Media Player

Are you tired of the default Start menu in Windows 11? Do you feel like it's cluttered with unnecessary apps and features? If so, you're not alone. Many users find the Start menu overwhelming and distracting, ultimately impacting their productivity. Fortunately, there's a solution - personalizing your Start menu.

By customizing your Start menu, you can maximize your productivity and unleash the full potential of your Windows 11 experience. You can create a unique and effective Start menu that caters to your specific needs and preferences, making your computing experience more enjoyable overall.

To get started, you'll need to explore the various customization options available in Windows 11. From rearranging your app tiles to pinning your favorite programs, there are plenty of ways to make your Start menu work for you. By taking the time to personalize your Start menu, you can streamline your workflow and access the apps and tools you need with just a few clicks.

Consider customizing your Start menu today to improve your Windows 11 experience and maximize productivity. With time and effort, you can create a Start menu tailored to your unique needs and preferences, making your computing experience more enjoyable and efficient. Let's get started.

All the changes outlined in this article are done inside the Settings app. You can bring up the Settings app by:

• Left-clicking on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
• In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings.
or
• Right-click on the Start button to bring up the Power User menu.
• In the list of programs that appear, left-click on Settings.
or
• Press the Windows logo key + I

Once you open the Settings app, left-click on Personalization in the left-hand column. This will display all of the Personalization categories in the right-hand column.

These customizations are in no particular order. Let's start with the alignment of the Start menu on the Taskbar.

Changing the location of the Start menu on the Taskbar

Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors

Windows 10 only allowed the Start menu to be located in the corner of the Taskbar, although you could place the Taskbar along any of the screen edges (left, right, top, or bottom). With Windows 11, you currently only have the option of the bottom of the screen.

But you can change the Start button's alignment (left or center). Inside of Taskbar behaviors, you can change the alignment between left and center using the pull-down menu.

Changing the accent color of the Start menu

Settings > Personalization > Colors

This option can be changed inside the Colors category. The only way you can change the Start menu accent color is by selecting Dark or Custom mode under Choose your mode. If you choose Dark mode, you can set the accent color for the Start menu and the Taskbar. If you choose Custom mode, you must select Dark mode for Windows to be able to set the accent color.

Changing the Start menu options

Settings > Personalization > Start

There are three (3) areas that you can customize on the Start menu; Pinned (programs /apps), Recommended (recently accessed files), and Folders (Settings, File Explorer, Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, Videos, Network, and Personal Folder).

The first option is the layout of the Start menu. You have three (3) choices; More pins, Default (an even mix of pins and recommendations), and More recommendations.

The next set of options you can toggle on or off. They are:

• Show recently added apps
• Show recently used apps
• Show recently opened items in Start, Jump Lists, and File Explorer
• Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more

The next option is the Folders category. Here, you can select which folders appear on the Start menu next to the Power button. You can choose any or all of the following folders: Settings, File Explorer, Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, Videos, Network, and Personal Folder.

Changing the Pinned apps on the Start menu

To add a program or folder to the Pinned apps area, locate the folder or program and right-click on it. From the context menu that appears, select Pin to Start.

To remove a program or folder from the Pinned apps area, right-click on it and select Unpin from Start.

To rearrange the Pinned apps, press and hold the left mouse button on the app you want to move and relocate it.

Changing the Recommended files

The only way to add a file to the Recommended area is to open a file with the associated program, then save it.

To remove a file from the Recommended area, right-click on it and select Remove from the list.