How to Reinstall OneDrive on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Errors and Get It Working Again

OneDrive is a useful cloud storage service integrated with Windows 10. Sometimes, it may stop working properly due to errors or corrupted files. Reinstalling OneDrive can often solve these issues and get it working again.

This guide will walk you through the process of reinstalling OneDrive step-by-step. Even if you are not very tech-savvy, the instructions are simple and easy to follow.

Before you begin, make sure to save any important files synced with OneDrive to avoid data loss. Let’s get started on fixing OneDrive.

By the end of this guide, you should have a clean reinstall of OneDrive running smoothly on your Windows 10 PC.

Quick Note: Prerequisites Before Reinstalling OneDrive

Backup Your Files: Ensure all your important OneDrive files are backed up or synced properly to avoid accidental data loss.
Check Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows 10 is up to date as OneDrive updates are sometimes tied to system updates.
Close OneDrive: Before uninstalling, close the OneDrive app completely to prevent conflicts during reinstallation.
Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is necessary for downloading and setting up OneDrive again.

Step 1: Uninstall OneDrive

The first step is to remove the current OneDrive installation. This helps clear any corrupted files or settings that may be causing errors.

Click the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left of your screen.
Select Settings (gear icon).
Go to Apps, then choose Apps & Features from the side menu.
Scroll down the list and find Microsoft OneDrive.
Click on it, then press the Uninstall button.
Confirm the uninstall by clicking Uninstall again in the popup window.

Uninstalling removes all OneDrive program files but does not delete your cloud data stored online.

Step 2: Close OneDrive Completely (If Still Running)

Sometimes OneDrive may continue running in the background even after uninstall. It is important to close it fully to avoid issues during reinstallation.

Right-click the OneDrive icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner near the clock). If you don’t see it, click the upward arrow to reveal hidden icons.
Choose Close OneDrive or Exit.
Alternatively, open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
Look for any running processes named OneDrive.exe.
Select them and click End Task.

Step 3: Download the Latest OneDrive Installer

To reinstall, you need the most recent version of OneDrive from Microsoft’s official website. This ensures you get the latest features and bug fixes.

Open your web browser and go to the official OneDrive download page: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onedrive/download
Click the Download button to save the installer file to your PC.
Wait for the download to complete before proceeding.

Step 4: Install OneDrive

Now, run the installer to set up OneDrive again on your computer.

Locate the downloaded file, usually in your Downloads folder.
Double-click the file named OneDriveSetup.exe to start the installation.
Follow the on-screen prompts. The installer will run automatically and set up OneDrive.
Once installed, OneDrive will launch and ask you to sign in with your Microsoft account.

Signing in reconnects OneDrive with your cloud storage and syncs your files as before.

Step 5: Configure OneDrive Settings

After installation, it’s a good idea to check your sync settings to make sure everything is set up the way you want.

Click the OneDrive icon in the system tray.
Select Help & Settings, then click Settings.
Review the folders you want to sync under the Account tab by clicking Choose folders.
Adjust settings like startup behavior or notifications in the Settings tab.

Alternative Method: Reinstall OneDrive via Command Prompt

If you prefer using commands, you can uninstall and reinstall OneDrive using the Command Prompt.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for cmd, right-clicking it, and selecting Run as administrator.
To uninstall OneDrive, type the following command and press Enter:
```
%SystemRoot%SysWOW64OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall
```
To reinstall OneDrive, type the command below and press Enter:
```
%SystemRoot%SysWOW64OneDriveSetup.exe /install
```
Wait a moment for the installation to complete, then sign in to OneDrive as usual.

FAQs

Will uninstalling OneDrive delete my files?

No. Uninstalling OneDrive only removes the application from your PC. Your files stored in the cloud remain safe in your OneDrive account.

Can I reinstall OneDrive without internet?

No. You need an internet connection to download the latest installer and to sync your files once installed.

Why should I close OneDrive before uninstalling?

Closing OneDrive ensures no files are in use or locked, preventing errors during uninstall or reinstall.

How do I know if OneDrive is running in the background?

Look for the OneDrive icon in the system tray. If it’s not visible, check Task Manager for any OneDrive processes.

What if reinstalling OneDrive does not fix the problem?

There may be deeper system issues or account problems. Try resetting OneDrive or contacting Microsoft support for further help.

When Nothing Works

If you have followed all steps carefully and OneDrive still does not work, consider these options:

Reset OneDrive: This can fix many stubborn issues. Press Windows + R, type %localappdata%MicrosoftOneDriveonedrive.exe /reset, and press Enter.
Create a new Windows user profile: Sometimes user profile corruption affects OneDrive.
Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft OneDrive Help for official troubleshooting and support.

Conclusion

Reinstalling OneDrive on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can resolve many common errors. By uninstalling the app, closing it completely, downloading the latest installer, and setting it up again, you refresh the application and clear faulty settings.

Always remember to back up your important files before starting, and double-check your sync settings after reinstalling. If problems persist, advanced options like resetting OneDrive or contacting support are valuable next steps.

With this guide, you should be able to fix OneDrive issues quickly and keep your files syncing smoothly.