How to Fix: OneDrive Not Syncing

How to Fix: OneDrive Not Syncing

/ Shayne Sherman

What is OneDrive?

OneDrive is a cloud storage service from Microsoft that allows users to store, sync, and share files across multiple devices. With OneDrive, files are securely stored in the cloud and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. Users can also share their stored files or folders with other OneDrive users.

Automatically Repair Windows Errors

Recommended: To easily install drivers automatically, use the tool below.

Download Now
Fortect System Repair

The service also includes a powerful search feature that lets users quickly locate files on the platform. The basic version of OneDrive is free, but users can also upgrade their accounts for more features like additional storage space and collaboration tools.

What Variables Cause Syncing Problems with OneDrive?

Multiple variables can cause syncing problems with OneDrive. Ensure that you are logged into the correct account and that your device is connected to a stable internet connection. Also, if another application on your device is using most of the bandwidth, then OneDrive may not be able to sync effectively. Redundant data can also potentially cause syncing issues.

Close and Reopen the OneDrive App

For OneDrive to sync correctly, it is often necessary to close and reopen the app. Doing so will refresh the connection between the device and the cloud storage service, allowing new data to be correctly uploaded and downloaded to OneDrive. In addition, closing and reopening the app can also resolve any issues related to syncing or performance. Here is how you can restart OneDrive.

Step 1: Launch OneDrive from Windows main menu. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the taskbar to launch the pop-up window.

quit onedrive

Step 2: In the pop-up, head to the gear icon to select quit OneDrive from the context menu. In the next pop-up, click the option to close OneDrive to confirm the action.

confirm close onedrive

Step 3: Once the application is closed, it’s time to restart OneDrive. Type OneDrive in the taskbar’s search box and double-click the option in the list to launch the OneDrive folder. It will resolve OneDrive sync problems.

reopen onedrive

Restart Your Windows PC

Restarting a Windows PC can be beneficial if OneDrive is not syncing correctly. When the computer restarts, the connection between the device and the cloud storage service can be reset.

This may help resolve syncing issues related to OneDrive, allowing files to be correctly uploaded and downloaded. Restarting your PC can also resolve performance-related issues hindering OneDrive’s ability to sync perfectly. Here is how you can quickly resume OneDrive syncing.

Step 1: To restart the device, navigate to the Windows icon in the main menu. Click the icon to select the option of shut down or sign out.

Step 2: Click on the restart to complete the action in the shutdown or sign-out options. It will restart the device and fix the OneDrive sync issues.

restart computer

Verify Storage Amount

If OneDrive is not syncing properly, then it could be OneDrive storage that is full and not allowing to sync office files or to upload files in OneDrive documents. In this context, you need to check the permitted storage for OneDrive to sync the folder. Here is how you can find the storage amount for all your files.

Step 1: Launch OneDrive from the main menu by clicking the icon. In the pop-up window, move to the OneDrive settings gear icon and click on the settings option.

select onedrive settings

Step 2: In the settings window, select the account tab and click the manage storage option under the OneDrive-personal section. It will show you the storage amount in your Microsoft OneDrive or OneDrive cloud icon.

check storage amount in onedrive

Step 3: For more storage, click the link, i.e., get more storage to land on OneDrive official website. Here you can buy more storage to fix OneDrive sync problems.

onedrive storage options

Disable Sync Pausing in Battery Saver Mode

Being a software application, OneDrive stops syncing files and folders due to power issues on the device. In case of low battery, the OneDrive desktop app will not sync. In this context, disabling the sync pausing in battery saver mode can help OneDrive users to resolve OneDrive syncing issues. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch OneDrive from the taskbar in Windows main menu, and in the pop-up window, click the settings menu.

select onedrive settings

Step 2: In the next step, select the settings option from the context menu, which will launch the settings pop-up window.

Step 3: In the next window, move to the settings tab, and under the general section, uncheck the box for the option of automatically pausing sync when this device is in battery saver mode.  

automatically pause sync onedrive

If syncing is not active on the current OneDrive account on your device, then unlinking the account can serve the purpose. In this context, adding or attaching a new Microsoft account with OneDrive can resume syncing local files, program files, and even the operating system. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch OneDrive in the windows main menu from the OneDrive icon, and click the settings menu in the pop-up window.

select onedrive settings

Step 2: In the context menu, select the option of settings. In the next pop-up window, navigate to the account tab, and under the OneDrive-personal section, click the link to unlink this PC.

unlink this pc onedrive

Step 3: Click the option to unlink the account in the confirmation pop-up window. It will remove the account from OneDrive. Setting a new account to OneDrive will resolve syncing errors.

convert unlink onedrive on pc

Update Windows

Sometimes, incompatibility between operating systems, i.e., Windows and OneDrive applications due to outdated or paused Windows updates, can result in OneDrive syncing errors. So updating windows to a compatible version can fix the issue. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch settings via windows key + X from the keyboard. In the settings menu, select the option of update and security

windows update and security

Step 2: Select the Windows update option in the update and security window and check for updates. Select update to resolve errors

check updates

Check Network Bandwidth Restrictions

The faulty network may also result in OneDrive not syncing error. In this context, checking the network bandwidth restrictions in the OneDrive settings can resolve the problem. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch OneDrive from the taskbar in the Windows main menu, and in the pop-up window, click the gear icon for OneDrive settings.

select onedrive settings

Step 2: Click the settings option in the gear icon context menu. In the settings pop-up window, navigate to the network tab.

Step 3: Under the section of upload rate, check the box for the option don’t limit. Click ok to apply and save changes.

dont limit upload rate onedrive

Reinstall OneDrive

If none of those mentioned above quick fix solutions worked for resolving the OneDrive syncing errors, then uninstalling followed by reinstallation can fix the problem. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch settings from the Windows main menu, i.e., type settings in the taskbar’s search box and double-click the option in the list to launch.

windows apps settings

Step 2: In the settings menu, select the option of apps followed by selecting apps and features.

apps and features options

Step 3: In the apps and features window, navigate to the OneDrive option and click it to select uninstall from the options. Again click uninstall to confirm the action.

Windows Uninstall OneDrive

Step 4: Once uninstalled, reinstall the latest version of OneDrive from the Microsoft store. Add the credentials to link your device to OneDrive and use it on the device.

Windows Automatic Repair Tool
Windows 10
System Information
  • Your machine is currently running Windows 10
  • Fortect is compatible with your operating system.

Recommended: To repair Windows Errors, use this software package; Fortect System Repair. This repair tool has been proven to identify and fix these errors and other Windows problems with very high efficiency.

Download Now
Fortect System Repair
Norton Digicert
  • 100% safe as confirmed by Norton.
  • Only your system and hardware are evaluated.

Frequently Asked Questions About OneDrive Not Syncing

Why Can’t I Open My OneDrive Account?

Your OneDrive account may not be opening for various reasons. It could be due to connection problems, out-of-date software, or an incorrect sign-in. Some troubleshooting steps are checking your internet connection, ensuring you’re running the latest version of OneDrive, and verifying that you have entered the correct sign-in credentials.

Why Can’t I Sync Files on OneDrive?

Syncing issues with OneDrive can be caused by various factors, including an unstable or slow internet connection, the computer is in sleep mode, or a conflict between the files stored locally and on cloud storage. Specific firewall settings may also prevent OneDrive from syncing correctly.

Can the OneDrive Settings Window Help with Syncing Files?

In this window, you can find several valuable options related to sync, such as which folders are being synced, how often files should be automatically synced, or what actions to take when a file or folder conflicts. You can also use the “Repair” option in the settings window to fix any issues related to synchronization.

Can Reinstalling OneDrive Help with Syncing Files?

While reinstalling OneDrive can help resolve some syncing issues, it is not a guaranteed solution. If other methods have failed or the problem persists, uninstalling and reinstalling OneDrive should be considered a last resort.

How do I Reset OneDrive?

To reset OneDrive, open the OneDrive app and click on the “Settings” icon. Then, select the “Unlink this PC” option. A confirmation window will appear; click “Unlink account” to confirm. Once completed, you can log in to your OneDrive account and reset your synchronization settings as desired.

How do I Fix OneDrive Sync Issues?

If you are having sync issues with OneDrive, there are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue. Make sure that OneDrive is updated to the latest version; if not, download the latest update. Relaunching the app may kickstart the syncing process. If that fails, check your internet connection and make sure no other applications are using your bandwidth.

Why Can’t I Access the OneDrive App?

If you cannot access the OneDrive app, there are a few possible reasons. First, check that your device is connected to the internet. Ensure that you have the latest version of the app installed; if not, update it via your app store. Lastly, try restarting your device to refresh any cached data.

Why is Microsoft OneDrive Not Syncing?

If your OneDrive is not syncing, there are a few possible reasons. First, check to ensure you are logged into the correct account. Ensure that your device is also connected to an active internet connection and that no other applications are using your bandwidth. Restart the app and relaunch it to kickstart the syncing process.

Will it Help with Syncing if I Reinstall OneDrive?

In some cases, reinstalling the OneDrive app will help with syncing issues. Doing this clears any corrupted or outdated data and gives you a fresh start. If the problem persists after reinstalling, contact customer service for further assistance.

What is OneDrive’s Storage Limit?

With a Microsoft account, you get 5GB of free storage on OneDrive. If you need more storage, you can upgrade to one of the paid plans that offer up to 1 TB of storage.

What Causes OneDrive Sync Problems?

Multiple variables can cause syncing problems with OneDrive. Ensure that you are logged into the correct account and that your device is connected to a stable internet connection. Also, if another application on your device is using most of the bandwidth, then OneDrive may not be able to sync effectively.

Why Can’t I Access My OneDrive Files?

OneDrive files may not be accessible for multiple reasons. Check that you are logged into the correct account and verify if your device has a stable internet connection. Ensure that the file isn’t located in a shared folder and that the appropriate permissions are in place. If possible, try accessing your OneDrive files on another device or web browser.

How do I Make My OneDrive Sync Faster?

Check your internet connection and ensure it’s stable and has good signal strength. Also, clear out any redundant files or folders that you no longer need and try disabling any third-party firewalls or antivirus software that may be running on your device.

Why Can’t I Open the OneDrive Icon?

The OneDrive icon may not open for multiple reasons. First, make sure that OneDrive is installed and running on your device. Check if the icon is hidden in the taskbar or tray area, and make it visible. Next, try resetting the OneDrive app settings to default by running a quick repair.

Why Can’t I Access the OneDrive Folder?

OneDrive folder may not be accessible due to a variety of reasons. Ensure you have an active internet connection and your device is connected to the correct account. Next, check if your OneDrive storage limit has been exceeded and clear out any redundant files or folders if needed.

Why is Microsoft OneDrive Not Responding?

Microsoft OneDrive not responding can be due to multiple issues. Check if you are connected to a secure network or need to switch networks. Ensure that your device is also running the latest version of OneDrive and has enough storage space available. You may also try restarting the application or resetting its settings by running a quick repair.

Why Can’t I Update OneDrive?

Check that your device has an active internet connection and enough storage space. Next, ensure you have the necessary permissions set for the shared folder. If your device runs an outdated version of Windows or OneDrive, try updating both applications and see if the issue resolves.

How do I Fix OneDrive?

Ensure your device is connected to a secure network and has enough storage space. Next, ensure that your device runs the latest Windows and OneDrive. If nothing else works, try restarting the application or resetting its settings by running a quick repair.

Shayne Sherman
Meet the author

Shayne is an expert on all things Microsoft Windows and computer security. As a Windows user of over 30 years, he has been featured on Business Insider, Yahoo, Tech Republic, Hacker Noon, Techopedia, and many other publications. Aside from entertaining at his home theater, he enjoys spending time with his family, including his English bulldog, Fergie.