OneDrive is a popular cloud storage service that helps users sync files across multiple devices. However, sometimes OneDrive might stop syncing on your Mac, causing frustration and delays. Fixing this issue doesn’t have to be complicated.
This guide will walk you through simple and effective solutions to get OneDrive syncing again on your Mac. The steps are designed for Windows 11 users who also use a Mac and want seamless file synchronization.
By following these instructions carefully, you can quickly resolve most syncing problems without needing technical expertise. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the detailed fixes.
These solutions are arranged from easy to more advanced, so you can try what works best for you.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks
- Check Your Internet Connection: OneDrive requires a stable internet connection to sync files. Make sure your Mac is connected to the internet and the connection is stable.
- Verify OneDrive Login: Ensure you are signed in to OneDrive with the correct Microsoft account on your Mac.
- Check Storage Space: Confirm that you have enough free space both on your OneDrive cloud storage and your Mac’s local drive.
- Update OneDrive: Running an outdated OneDrive app can cause syncing issues. Make sure your OneDrive client is up to date.
Step 1: Restart OneDrive
Sometimes, simply restarting the OneDrive app can fix syncing problems. This refreshes the connection and clears temporary glitches.
- Click the OneDrive icon in the menu bar at the top right of your screen.
- Click the gear icon or your profile picture to open settings.
- Select Quit OneDrive.
- After OneDrive closes, open it again from the Applications folder or Launchpad.
- Check if syncing resumes.
Step 2: Check OneDrive Folder Location and Permissions
OneDrive needs proper folder access to sync files. Incorrect folder location or permission settings can block syncing.
- Open Finder and navigate to your OneDrive folder.
- Right-click the OneDrive folder and select Get Info.
- Scroll to the Sharing & Permissions section.
- Ensure your user account has Read & Write permissions.
- If permissions are incorrect, click the lock icon at the bottom, enter your password, and change the privileges.
- Close the info window and try to sync again.
Step 3: Reset OneDrive
Resetting OneDrive clears cache and settings without deleting your files. This can resolve syncing errors caused by corrupted data.
To reset OneDrive on Mac:
- Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities).
- Type or paste the following command and press Enter:
/Applications/OneDrive.app/Contents/Resources/ResetOneDriveApp.command - Wait a few moments as OneDrive resets.
- Once reset, launch OneDrive from Applications again.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account if prompted.
- Check if syncing now works.
Step 4: Reinstall OneDrive
If resetting doesn’t work, reinstalling OneDrive ensures you have the latest version and a fresh installation.
- Close OneDrive if it’s running (use the Quit option as explained earlier).
- Open Finder and go to the Applications folder.
- Find OneDrive and drag it to the Trash.
- Empty the Trash to remove the app completely.
- Go to the official Microsoft OneDrive download page and download the latest Mac installer.
- Install OneDrive and open it.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account and set up your sync preferences.
- Check if the syncing issue is resolved.
Step 5: Check Proxy and Firewall Settings
Sometimes, network restrictions like firewalls or proxies can block OneDrive from syncing.
To troubleshoot this:
- Go to System Preferences > Network on your Mac.
- Select your active network connection and click Advanced.
- Navigate to the Proxies tab and check if any proxies are enabled.
- If you see proxies enabled and you don’t need them, uncheck the boxes.
- Apply changes and restart your Mac.
- Also, check your firewall settings under System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall.
- Make sure OneDrive is allowed to accept incoming connections.
Alternative Method: Use OneDrive Web Access
If syncing continues to fail on your Mac, try accessing your files via OneDrive’s web interface as a temporary solution.
- Open your preferred web browser.
- Go to https://onedrive.live.com.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Upload or download files directly from the web if needed.
FAQs
Why is OneDrive not syncing all my files?
OneDrive might skip files that are too large, have invalid characters, or are open in another program. Check file names and sizes and close any apps using those files.
How do I know if OneDrive is syncing or stuck?
The OneDrive icon in the menu bar shows syncing status. A spinning icon means syncing is in progress, while a red X indicates an error.
Can OneDrive sync files from external drives?
OneDrive does not sync files stored on external or network drives by default. Files must reside in the OneDrive folder on your Mac’s internal drive.
Is there a limit to how many files OneDrive can sync?
Yes, OneDrive has limits on file size (usually 250 GB) and total number of files. Very large syncs can slow down or cause issues.
How do I pause and resume syncing?
Click the OneDrive icon, open settings, and choose Pause syncing for a set time. Resume syncing by selecting Resume syncing from the same menu.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and OneDrive still won’t sync on your Mac, consider the following final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official OneDrive Support page for help and troubleshooting resources.
- Check for macOS Updates: Sometimes system updates fix compatibility issues.
- Create a New User Account: Sync issues could be caused by user profile corruption. Setting up a new macOS user account and syncing there can help identify this.
- Use Alternative Cloud Services: If the problem persists, consider temporary use of other cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Conclusion
OneDrive syncing issues on Mac can be frustrating but are often easy to fix with a few simple steps. Always start by checking your internet connection, permissions, and restarting the app.
Resetting or reinstalling OneDrive usually clears most problems. Also, don’t forget to verify network settings and firewall permissions that might block syncing.
If you continue facing trouble, using OneDrive’s web version or contacting Microsoft support are good next steps.
By following this guide, you can restore your OneDrive syncing and keep your files up to date across your devices without hassle.