OneDrive File Issues

Fix Disappeared OneDrive Files and Sync Error 0x80070185

Rana Garcia Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing issues where OneDrive folders appear empty and syncing fails, even though recent files can still be opened via Microsoft Word.

How to Fix Disappeared OneDrive Files and Sync Errors

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Accessing, syncing, or managing files and shared documents stored in Microsoft OneDrive.
Observed behavior: OneDrive appears empty, shared files show item-not-found errors, the Recycle Bin fails to load, and synced files return error 0x80070185, yet some documents still open through Word.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and verify that you are logged into the correct Microsoft account on both your local device and the OneDrive web portal.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Known Folder Backup Settings in OneDrive

If files open in Word but do not appear in your local OneDrive folder, the backup settings for your Documents folder might be disabled.

Microsoft Word often caches recent file locations. If the local sync is turned off for specific folders like Documents, the files will not be visible in your local File Explorer but will still open from Word's recent list.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click on the OneDrive cloud icon in your computer's system tray (taskbar), click the Gear icon, and select Settings.

Navigate to Sync and Backup

In the left sidebar of the Settings window, click on the 'Sync and backup' tab.

Manage Backup Folders

Click the 'Manage backup' button. A new window will appear showing your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders.

Enable Documents Sync

Ensure the toggle switch next to the 'Documents' folder is turned on to resume backing up and displaying these files in OneDrive.

Verify Known Folder Backup Settings in OneDrive

Sync Completion: Once enabled, it may take a few minutes for the files to download and become visible in your local File Explorer.

Solution 2

Confirm Account Details and File Location

Missing files and item-not-found errors often occur when OneDrive is signed into a different account than the one used to create or share the documents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does OneDrive error 0x80070185 mean?

Error 0x80070185 typically translates to 'The cloud operation was unsuccessful.' It occurs when OneDrive fails to sync or download files properly, often due to network issues, corrupted cache data, or conflicting file permissions.

Why can I open my files in Word but not find them in OneDrive?

This usually happens if the 'Documents' folder backup is turned off in your OneDrive settings. Word retains the cloud file path in its Recent list, but the file itself isn't syncing locally to your File Explorer.

How do I fix the 'item-not-found' error for shared files?

This error happens if the file owner deleted the document, moved it to a private folder, or revoked your access. You will need to ask the file owner to re-share the document link or check if it was accidentally moved to their Recycle Bin.

Document & File Issues