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Clipboard sync is a handy feature in Windows 11 that lets you copy and paste content across your devices seamlessly. When it stops working, it can disrupt your workflow and cause frustration.

Fortunately, fixing clipboard sync issues is usually straightforward. With a few simple checks and adjustments, you can get it running smoothly again.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-follow steps to resolve clipboard sync problems on Windows 11. Each solution is explained clearly, so even beginners can understand.

By the end, you’ll have your clipboard syncing properly, allowing you to copy and paste across devices without hassle.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

• Make sure you are signed in to the same Microsoft account on both devices.
• Ensure both devices have an active internet connection.
• Clipboard syncing requires Windows 10 version 1809 or later, but Windows 11 is fully supported.
• Verify that clipboard history is enabled on your Windows 11 PC.

Step 1: Enable Clipboard History and Sync Across Devices

Clipboard sync depends on clipboard history being active. Here’s how to check and enable it:

1. Click the Start button, then select Settings (gear icon).
2. Go to System and then click Clipboard on the left sidebar.
3. Make sure the toggle for Clipboard history is turned On.
4. Below that, turn on the toggle for Sync across devices.
5. Choose Automatically sync text that I copy or Never automatically sync text based on your preference.

Enabling these settings allows Windows 11 to save your clipboard data and share it with your other devices.

Step 2: Sign Out and Back Into Your Microsoft Account

Sometimes, clipboard sync stops working due to issues with your Microsoft account connection. Signing out and back in can refresh this connection.

1. Open Settings and click on Accounts.
2. Select Your info from the sidebar.
3. Click Sign in with a local account instead and follow the prompts to switch temporarily.
4. Once switched, repeat the process and select Sign in with a Microsoft account to log back in.

This process resets your Microsoft account sync settings and can resolve glitches affecting clipboard sync.

Step 3: Check Your Privacy Settings

Windows 11 privacy settings can block apps and services from accessing the clipboard, which may interfere with sync.

1. Open Settings and go to Privacy & security.
2. Scroll down and find Clipboard under the App permissions section.
3. Make sure the option Allow apps to access clipboard history is turned On.

Allowing access ensures that clipboard syncing services can function properly.

Step 4: Restart the Clipboard User Service

Windows runs a background service managing clipboard features. Restarting it can fix temporary issues.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. In the Services window, locate Clipboard User Service or Clipboard User Service_ followed by some characters.
4. Right-click it and select Restart.

If you don’t see this service, proceed to the next step as it may be managed differently in your build.

Step 5: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Clipboard

Windows includes troubleshooters that can identify and fix common problems automatically.

1. Open Settings and select System.
2. Scroll down and click Troubleshoot, then choose Other troubleshooters.
3. Look for a troubleshooter related to clipboard or keyboard and run it.

Follow any prompts or instructions provided. This can help fix underlying issues affecting clipboard syncing.

Step 6: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve features like clipboard sync.

1. Open Settings and click Windows Update at the bottom of the sidebar.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If updates are available, download and install them, then restart your PC.

Keeping Windows up to date ensures you have the latest fixes and improvements.

Advanced Options

If basic steps don’t work, you can try these advanced methods:

• Reset Clipboard Data via Registry Editor: This can clear corrupted clipboard data. Be cautious and back up your registry before making changes.
• Create a New User Profile: Sometimes corrupt user profiles cause sync issues. Creating a new profile can isolate the problem.
• Use Third-Party Clipboard Managers: If Windows clipboard syncing remains unreliable, external apps like ClipboardFusion or Ditto offer enhanced features and syncing options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is clipboard sync not working between my PC and phone?

Clipboard sync requires both devices to be signed into the same Microsoft account and connected to the internet. Also, ensure clipboard syncing is enabled on both devices.

Can I sync clipboard data without internet?

No. Clipboard sync uses cloud services to transfer data between devices, so an active internet connection is necessary.

Is clipboard syncing secure?

Microsoft encrypts clipboard data during transfer and stores it securely. However, avoid copying sensitive information like passwords if you are concerned about privacy.

Does clipboard sync work on non-Windows devices?

Clipboard syncing works primarily within Microsoft ecosystems, such as Windows PCs and some Microsoft apps on Android and iOS. Cross-platform syncing is limited.

How long is clipboard data stored?

Clipboard history stores up to 25 items and clears when you restart your computer unless pinned. Sync data is typically temporary to maintain privacy.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and clipboard syncing still doesn’t work, consider these final options:

• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support site for personalized help.
• Reset Windows 11: As a last resort, you can reset your PC to factory defaults. This removes apps and settings but may fix deeply-rooted issues.
• Use Alternative Methods: Manually transfer clipboard content via email, cloud storage, or messaging apps if syncing is not critical.

Conclusion

Clipboard sync not working on Windows 11 can interrupt your productivity, but most problems have simple fixes. Start by enabling clipboard history and syncing, verify your Microsoft account, and check privacy settings.

Restarting services, running troubleshooters, and keeping Windows updated usually resolve most issues. For complex problems, advanced solutions or official support may be needed.

By following these well-explained steps, you can restore clipboard syncing and enjoy smooth copy-paste functionality across your devices once again.