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How to Fix iCloud Drive Not Syncing on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

iCloud Drive is a convenient way to keep your files synced across all your Apple devices and Windows PCs. However, sometimes it may stop syncing properly on Windows 11. This can be frustrating if you rely on iCloud to access your important documents and photos.

Fortunately, most syncing issues can be fixed with a few simple steps. These solutions will guide you through checking your settings, restarting services, and more.

This article explains how to troubleshoot and fix iCloud Drive not syncing on Windows 11 in a clear, step-by-step manner. No advanced knowledge is needed.

By following these instructions, you should be able to get iCloud Drive working smoothly again in no time.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, please ensure the following:

  • Your Windows 11 PC has a stable internet connection. iCloud requires internet access to sync files.
  • You are signed in to iCloud with the correct Apple ID on your PC.
  • You have the latest version of iCloud for Windows installed.
  • Your PC’s date and time settings are accurate, as incorrect settings can cause sync problems.

Step 1: Check Your iCloud Drive Settings

The first thing to do is verify that iCloud Drive is enabled on your Windows 11 PC. If the feature is off, files won’t sync.

  1. Open the iCloud for Windows app from the Start menu.
  2. Look for the iCloud Drive option in the list.
  3. Ensure the checkbox next to iCloud Drive is checked.
  4. Click Apply if you made any changes.

Enabling iCloud Drive here allows your PC to communicate with Apple’s cloud servers to keep your files updated.

Step 2: Restart iCloud and Your Computer

Sometimes, simply restarting the app and your PC can resolve syncing glitches.

  1. Close the iCloud for Windows app completely.
  2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  3. Look for any iCloud-related processes (like iCloud.exe) and end them.
  4. Restart your PC.
  5. After reboot, open iCloud for Windows again and sign in if required.

Restarting clears temporary issues and refreshes the app’s connection to iCloud servers.

Step 3: Verify Your Internet Connection and Firewall Settings

iCloud Drive needs an active internet connection to sync. If your firewall or network settings block iCloud, syncing will fail.

  1. Open your web browser and check if other websites load properly.
  2. Temporarily disable any VPNs or proxy servers if you use them.
  3. Open Windows Security by searching for Windows Defender Firewall.
  4. Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  5. Make sure iCloud is allowed on both private and public networks.

If iCloud is blocked by your firewall, syncing cannot happen. Allowing it fixes this problem.

Step 4: Check iCloud Storage and File Size Limits

Your iCloud account must have enough free space to upload new files. Also, very large files may fail to sync.

  1. Go to iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
  2. Check your available storage at the bottom of the page.
  3. Delete unnecessary files if your storage is nearly full.
  4. Avoid uploading single files larger than 50 GB, as they may not sync properly.

Ensuring enough storage and keeping files within size limits helps iCloud sync without errors.

Step 5: Reset iCloud Drive Sync

If syncing is still stuck, resetting the iCloud Drive connection can help.

  1. Open iCloud for Windows.
  2. Uncheck the iCloud Drive box and click Apply. This disables syncing temporarily.
  3. Wait for a minute, then check the box again and click Apply.
  4. Give the system a few minutes to rebuild the sync connection.

This process forces iCloud to reinitialize syncing your files from scratch.

Step 6: Update iCloud for Windows and Windows 11

Outdated software can cause compatibility problems.

  1. Open the Microsoft Store app.
  2. Search for iCloud and check if an update is available.
  3. If yes, update the app to the latest version.
  4. Also, go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending system updates.

Keeping software updated ensures you benefit from bug fixes and improved compatibility.

Alternative Method: Use iCloud Web Access

If the desktop app continues to have issues, you can access your files directly through the web.

  • Visit iCloud.com in your browser.
  • Sign in with your Apple ID.
  • Use the iCloud Drive app on the site to view, download, or upload files.

This method works independently of your PC’s syncing and can be a temporary workaround.

FAQs

Why is iCloud Drive not syncing new files on Windows 11?

Common reasons include iCloud Drive being disabled, poor internet connection, firewall blocking, or lack of storage space.

How long does it take for iCloud Drive to sync changes?

Usually, syncing happens within a few minutes depending on file size and internet speed. Large files can take longer.

Can I choose which folders to sync with iCloud Drive on Windows?

Currently, iCloud for Windows syncs all files in iCloud Drive. Selective folder syncing is not supported.

What file types are supported by iCloud Drive?

iCloud Drive supports almost all file types, but files with certain special characters in their names may not sync.

Does turning off iCloud Drive delete my files?

Turning off iCloud Drive on your PC stops syncing but does not delete your files from iCloud. Your files remain safe in the cloud.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and iCloud Drive still does not sync, consider these final options:

  • Sign out and sign back in: Open iCloud for Windows, sign out of your Apple ID, then sign back in.
  • Reinstall iCloud for Windows: Uninstall the app via Settings > Apps, then download and install the latest version from the Microsoft Store.
  • Contact Apple Support: Visit Apple’s official iCloud support page for personalized help.

These steps address deeper issues that may require resetting your account connection or fixing app corruption.

Conclusion

iCloud Drive syncing problems on Windows 11 can usually be fixed by checking settings, restarting the app, and ensuring proper internet and firewall configurations. Keeping your software updated and managing storage also helps maintain smooth syncing.

By following the simple steps outlined here, you can resolve most syncing issues without hassle. If needed, using iCloud web access or contacting Apple support provides additional support.

With patience and these troubleshooting tips, your iCloud Drive should soon be syncing your files reliably again.

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