How to Fix Dropbox Error 413 on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Dropbox is a popular cloud storage service that many use daily to sync files across devices. However, sometimes users encounter errors that interrupt their workflow. One common issue on Windows 11 is the Dropbox Error 413.

This error usually indicates a problem with the request size or communication between your device and Dropbox servers. It can prevent files from uploading or syncing correctly.

Fixing Error 413 often involves simple troubleshooting steps that anyone can follow. In this article, we will guide you through easy and detailed solutions.

By the end, you should be able to resolve the issue and get Dropbox working smoothly again.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into fixes, make sure to check a few important things:

Stable Internet Connection: A slow or unstable connection can cause syncing errors, including Error 413.
Dropbox Server Status: Sometimes, the problem is on Dropbox’s side. Visit Dropbox Status to confirm if servers are working properly.
File Size and Type: Ensure the file you are trying to upload is not too large or using unsupported characters in the filename.
Windows 11 Updates: Keeping your system updated helps avoid compatibility issues with apps like Dropbox.

Step 1: Restart Dropbox and Your PC

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches causing Error 413.

Close Dropbox: Right-click the Dropbox icon in the system tray (near the clock) and select Exit Dropbox.
Restart Your Computer: Click the Start button, select Power, then Restart.
Once your PC restarts, open Dropbox again from the Start menu or desktop shortcut.

Restarting refreshes Dropbox’s connection and clears minor errors that might block syncing.

Step 2: Clear Dropbox Cache

Dropbox stores temporary files (cache) that can sometimes become corrupted and cause errors.

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type %HOMEPATH%Dropbox.dropbox.cache and press Enter.
A folder will open showing cache files. Select all files inside by pressing Ctrl + A.
Press Delete to remove these cache files.
Restart Dropbox and check if the error persists.

Clearing cache forces Dropbox to rebuild its temporary files, which can resolve syncing problems linked to Error 413.

Step 3: Check File and Folder Names

Dropbox can reject files with certain special characters or very long file paths, leading to errors.

Avoid characters like: / : * ? " < > | in file or folder names.
Make sure file names are not excessively long (try to keep under 255 characters).
Try renaming the problematic file or moving it to a different folder.

Errors with special characters or long paths can cause Dropbox to fail when trying to sync those files.

Step 4: Disable Proxy or VPN

Using a proxy server or VPN can interfere with Dropbox’s ability to communicate with its servers properly.

Open Settings on Windows 11 by pressing Windows + I.
Go to Network & Internet > Proxy.
Make sure Use a proxy server is turned off unless you specifically need it.
If you use a VPN, try disconnecting it temporarily.
Restart Dropbox and test if syncing works.

Disabling proxy or VPN eliminates potential network restrictions causing Error 413.

Step 5: Reinstall Dropbox

If previous steps don’t work, reinstalling Dropbox can fix corrupted installation files.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Apps > Apps & features.
Find Dropbox in the list, click it, then select Uninstall.
Follow the prompts to complete uninstallation.
Visit the official Dropbox website: https://www.dropbox.com/install
Download the latest version and install it.
Log in and check if Error 413 is resolved.

Reinstalling ensures you have a clean and up-to-date version of Dropbox.

Advanced Option: Modify Windows Firewall Settings

Sometimes, Windows Firewall might block Dropbox from communicating properly.

Open Control Panel by typing it in the Start menu.
Navigate to System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left sidebar.
Look for Dropbox in the list and make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are enabled.
If Dropbox is not listed, click Allow another app, browse to the Dropbox executable, and add it.
Click OK and restart Dropbox.

Allowing Dropbox through the firewall prevents network blocks that can cause Error 413.

FAQs About Dropbox Error 413 on Windows 11

What exactly does Dropbox Error 413 mean?

Error 413 typically means the request sent by Dropbox is too large, or there is a communication problem between your device and Dropbox servers.

Can large files cause this error?

Yes, uploading very large files or a large number of files at once can trigger Error 413. Try uploading smaller batches or individual files.

Is this error related to my internet connection?

Sometimes. An unstable or slow internet connection can disrupt syncing, leading to errors like 413.

Will uninstalling Dropbox delete my files?

No, uninstalling the app does not delete your files stored on Dropbox’s cloud. However, files stored only locally without syncing may be affected.

Can antivirus software cause this issue?

Yes, some antivirus or security software might block Dropbox from syncing properly. Temporarily disabling or adjusting settings may help.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and Error 413 still persists, consider these final options:

Contact Dropbox Support: Visit Dropbox Support for personalized assistance.
Use Dropbox Web: Upload or manage your files directly from the Dropbox website as a temporary workaround.
Check Windows Event Viewer: Look for system errors that might provide more clues about the problem.
Try on Another Device: See if the problem is specific to your Windows 11 PC or affects other devices.

These steps can help you get closer to resolving persistent errors.

Conclusion

Dropbox Error 413 on Windows 11 can be frustrating but is often fixable with simple troubleshooting. Starting with basic steps like restarting Dropbox and clearing cache can solve many issues quickly.

Checking file names, network settings, and reinstalling Dropbox cover most other common causes. For advanced users, adjusting firewall settings may also help.

Remember to verify your internet connection and Dropbox server status before deep troubleshooting. If nothing works, Dropbox’s official support and online tools are valuable resources.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to fix Error 413 and enjoy seamless Dropbox syncing once again.