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OneDrive is a popular cloud storage service that helps you keep your files safe and accessible from anywhere. However, slow upload speeds can be frustrating when you need to back up important documents quickly. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to troubleshoot and fix OneDrive upload slow issues on Windows 11.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to improve your OneDrive upload speed. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along without confusion. By the end, you should notice a significant improvement in how fast your files upload to OneDrive.

Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into detailed troubleshooting. These will help you identify common causes of slow uploads.

Follow the steps in order, from the easiest solutions to more advanced methods, to get the best results.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

• Check your internet connection: Slow upload speeds often come from poor internet performance. Make sure your connection is stable and has a decent upload speed by using an online speed test.
• Ensure OneDrive is running: Look for the OneDrive icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner). If it’s not there, OneDrive may not be running properly.
• Check available storage: Verify that you have enough space in your OneDrive cloud and on your local device. Lack of storage can cause uploading issues.
• Update Windows and OneDrive: Keeping your system and apps updated helps fix bugs and improve performance.

Step 1: Pause and Resume OneDrive Sync

Sometimes, simply pausing and then resuming OneDrive sync can resolve temporary glitches slowing down uploads.

1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray.
2. Select Help & Settings (gear icon).
3. Click Pause syncing and choose a short time like 2 hours.
4. Wait a few seconds, then go back and click Resume syncing.

This refreshes the connection and can clear any stuck upload tasks.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

Restarting your PC often fixes temporary software or network issues that may slow down OneDrive.

1. Click the Start menu and select Power.
2. Choose Restart.
3. After rebooting, check if OneDrive uploads improve.

This step clears the system’s memory and resets network connections.

Step 3: Check OneDrive Upload Rate Limit Settings

OneDrive lets you limit upload speeds to avoid using too much bandwidth. If this limit is set too low, your uploads will be slow.

1. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the system tray and select Help & Settings.
2. Click Settings.
3. Go to the Network tab.
4. Under Upload rate, select Don’t limit or increase the limit to a higher number.
5. Click OK to save your changes.

By removing or raising the limit, OneDrive can use more of your internet bandwidth to upload files faster.

Step 4: Reset OneDrive

If the previous steps don’t work, resetting OneDrive can fix corrupted files or settings causing slow uploads. Resetting won’t delete your files.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   %localappdata%MicrosoftOneDriveonedrive.exe /reset
3. Wait a few minutes for OneDrive to reset and restart automatically.
4. If OneDrive does not start on its own, open it manually from the Start menu.

This process clears temporary data and forces OneDrive to re-sync your files properly.

Step 5: Check for Windows and OneDrive Updates

Using the latest software can fix bugs and improve upload speeds.

• Update Windows 11:
  1. Open Settings (Win + I).
  2. Go to Windows Update.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
• Update OneDrive manually:
  1. Download the latest OneDrive installer from the official Microsoft website.
  2. Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. It will update your current OneDrive version.

Step 6: Exclude OneDrive Folder from Antivirus Scanning

Sometimes antivirus software can slow down file uploads by scanning files during the sync. Temporarily excluding your OneDrive folder may help.

1. Open your antivirus application.
2. Find the settings for Exclusions or Exceptions.
3. Add your OneDrive folder path, usually:
   C:UsersYourUserNameOneDrive
4. Save changes and restart OneDrive sync.

Remember to re-enable antivirus scanning after troubleshooting to stay protected.

Step 7: Use the OneDrive Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a troubleshooter for OneDrive that can detect and fix common problems automatically.

1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Find OneDrive in the list and click Run.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool can save time by identifying issues you might miss manually.

FAQs

Why is my OneDrive upload speed slower than my internet speed test?

OneDrive uploads can be slower due to server load, file size, or limits set within the app. Also, your internet upload speed may be lower than download speed, which affects upload times.

Can large files cause slow uploads?

Yes, very large files take longer to upload. Consider splitting large files into smaller parts or compressing them before uploading.

Does syncing many files at once slow down OneDrive?

Yes, syncing a large number of files simultaneously can slow down the process. Upload files in smaller batches for better performance.

Is it safe to reset OneDrive?

Yes, resetting OneDrive only clears temporary settings and cache. Your files remain safe both locally and in the cloud.

How can I check my current upload speed?

You can use websites like Speedtest.net to check your internet upload speed.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps and OneDrive upload remains slow, consider these final options:

• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official OneDrive support page for personalized help.
• Reinstall OneDrive: Uninstall OneDrive from your PC, then download and install the latest version.
• Check for network issues: Sometimes router settings or ISP problems may affect upload speed. Restart your router or contact your internet provider.
• Try a different network: Upload files using a different Wi-Fi or wired connection to identify if your current network is the problem.

Conclusion

Slow OneDrive uploads on Windows 11 can result from various factors, but most issues are fixable with simple steps. Start by checking your internet connection and OneDrive settings, then proceed with pausing sync, restarting your PC, and resetting OneDrive if needed.

Keeping your system and apps updated, and managing antivirus exclusions, can also boost upload speeds. If problems persist, use Windows troubleshooters or contact Microsoft support for assistance.

Following this step-by-step guide should help you get OneDrive uploading your files smoothly and efficiently again.