Hate OneDrive? This new Windows 11 option might be for you

Microsoft is adding a backup alternative in Windows

Tired of being nudged into using OneDrive for every backup? You’re not alone. Microsoft is introducing a PC-to-PC migration tool that skips the cloud entirely. This new Windows 11 feature allows local data transfer from one PC to another using your Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

It’s fresh air for those who prefer simplicity and want to control their data without relying on OneDrive syncing for every setup.

This tool helps users skip full OneDrive backups

This tool might be your solution if you’ve ever dreaded setting up a new Windows PC just because of OneDrive dependency. PC-to-PC migration lets you bring over your settings, files, and preferences locally.

It still requires a Microsoft account, but there’s no pressure to rely on cloud backup. For many users, it’s the middle ground between a full restore and starting fresh, with none of the OneDrive baggage attached.

Migration happens over your home network only

To pull this off, both old and new PCs must be connected to the same network. That can be via wired Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Once they detect each other, you’ll use a one-time code to link the machines securely.

From there, Windows handles the transfer. It’s simple, private, and eliminates the need to upload files to the cloud just to move them between two devices sitting right next to each other.

Some data types will still be left behind

While the new migration tool transfers a lot of things like desktop themes, wallpapers, and files, it doesn’t move everything. Apps won’t come along, nor will saved passwords or system files. That’s not unusual, but it’s something to keep in mind.

You’ll still need to reinstall your software and sign back into sites. However, you’ll avoid the headache of resetting your desktop from scratch or digging through OneDrive folders.

You’ll still need a Microsoft account to use it

Here’s the catch: even if you hate cloud syncing, you still have to log in with a Microsoft account to use this tool. It’s part of how Windows ensures a secure, verifiable transfer between devices.

While it’s not ideal for those who prefer local accounts, it’s still better than forcing users to back up to OneDrive or rely on the cloud for everything. Think of it as a compromise between control and convenience.

The process begins during initial PC setup

To use this feature, you need to be signed in during the setup of your new PC. Once setup is complete, the migration option appears, prompting you to connect the two machines. You’ll enter a unique code to link them securely.

After that, selecting what you want to move is just a matter. The process is built into Windows 11 and should soon become a standard option for all users.

It’s designed with Windows 10 users in mind

With Windows 10 support ending in 2025, Microsoft is trying to make the upgrade to Windows 11 as painless as possible. PC-to-PC migration is aimed at users holding out on older machines.

If you plan to jump soon, this could help transfer your digital life to a new PC without needing a complicated backup plan. It’s an upgrade strategy that feels more flexible and less forceful.

Windows will resume if the transfer fails

Network drops happen. Microsoft knows that, and they’ve built this feature with some resilience. If your Wi-Fi goes out during transfer, Windows will try to resume the migration once the connection returns.

And if that doesn’t work, you can restart the whole thing manually. That extra layer of fault tolerance ensures that even if your internet hiccups, you’re not starting over from square one every time.

Your apps won’t come along for the ride

One significant limitation of this feature is that your installed apps will not be transferred. You’ll have to reinstall third-party programs and reconfigure anything not natively tied to your Microsoft account.

Compared to a full OneDrive restore, that’s a downside. But for users who like a cleaner start or don’t mind setting up apps from scratch, this trade-off might be worth the increased control over what moves and what doesn’t.

Microsoft still wants you to try the Backup app

Interestingly, using the Windows Backup app to sync your settings to OneDrive comes with a perk: a free year of extended Windows 10 updates. That shows where Microsoft’s priorities lie.

Still, offering migration as a secondary path signals an understanding that not all users want to rely on the cloud. PC-to-PC migration feels like Microsoft giving people an off-ramp, even while still encouraging the main highway.

OneDrive isn’t required, but it cannot be entirely avoided

You don’t have to use OneDrive for PC-to-PC migration, but you can’t completely escape Microsoft’s ecosystem. A Microsoft account is still required, and some functions, like password sync or stored credentials, will only work if you’ve backed up to the cloud.

It’s a trade-off. You get the benefits of local transfers without file uploads, but you still operate within Microsoft’s system. It’s less about escape and more about choosing your level of commitment.

This tool isn’t ready for all PCs yet

At launch, this migration feature doesn’t support devices with ARM processors, and encrypted drives need to be decrypted first. So, if you’re on a newer Copilot+ PC or have BitLocker enabled, you’ll need to wait or take extra steps.

Microsoft says ARM support is “coming,” which suggests it’s already in the works. For now, it’s a good tool for the majority, but it’s not universal yet.

It’s expected to go live very soon

Microsoft is gradually rolling out the PC‑to‑PC migration feature via optional Windows 11 and Windows 10 updates. It remains behind a phased deployment, visible in Insider builds first and not yet fully enabled for all mainstream users.

With Windows 10’s end-of-life looming in 2025, it’s a safe bet that this tool will be live and promoted widely. The timing isn’t accidental; it’s part of Microsoft’s strategy to ease the final push toward upgrading.

A free upgrade path is still on the table

If you’re still on Windows 10 and unsure about upgrading, there’s more incentive now. Syncing your settings to OneDrive using the Backup app can get you a free year of security updates past the 2025 cutoff.

That, paired with the new migration feature, gives users two distinct options: one cloud-based, one local. Depending on your comfort level, you can pick the path that makes the upgrade smoother.

BitLocker users will need to decrypt first

If your drive is encrypted with BitLocker, you must turn it off before starting the migration. Windows won’t transfer data between encrypted drives during this process. While this adds a security step, it’s a necessary precaution to avoid errors or corrupted transfers.

If encryption is a must for you, re-enable it after the migration. Microsoft may streamline this in the future, but not yet.

And encryption’s not the only curveball some users are now being told to pull their GPUs. Check out why Windows 11 is urging some users to remove their GPU.

It’s about flexibility, not perfection

This new Windows 11 feature isn’t flawless, but gives users more flexibility. Whether you’re cloud-averse, cautious about OneDrive, or just want a more straightforward way to move your files, PC-to-PC migration offers a real alternative.

Microsoft may still nudge you toward its ecosystem, but this tool shows it’s listening to those who want more control. In an era of forced cloud reliance, any local option is a welcome breath of air.

And not all updates are landing well, just ask Notepad users. Find out why the Windows 11 notepad update is sparking major user backlash.

What do you think about the new feature in Microsoft Windows for those who don’t like OneDrive? Please share your thoughts and drop a comment.

Read More From This Brand:

• Windows 11 search gets smarter with Copilot AI boost
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• Microsoft’s new AI agent brings real change to Windows 11

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.