File Cannot Open

Fix Excel Files Not Opening from Synced SharePoint Folder

Maira Mehtab Oct 21, 2026 869 views

Question details

A specific user is unable to open Excel workbooks from a local SharePoint folder synchronized via OneDrive, while other users can access the same files without issues.

How to Fix Excel Files That Won't Open from a Synced SharePoint Folder

Product: Excel
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Opening a shared Excel file stored in a SharePoint folder that has been synced locally using OneDrive.
Observed behavior: Excel displays an error stating that the workbook cannot be found or accessed.

Before you start

Ensure your internet connection is stable and check the OneDrive system tray icon to verify that your files are fully synchronized without any pending sync errors.

Solution 1

Open the File Directly from SharePoint in Excel

Bypass the local OneDrive sync folder to verify if the file itself is intact and accessible on the server.

Launch Excel

Open the Microsoft Excel application on your computer.

Navigate to Sites

Click on 'File', select 'Open', and then click on 'Sites' or your company's SharePoint location.

Select the File

Browse to the shared library, locate the specific workbook you need, and double-click to open it.

Solution 2

Unlink and Reconnect OneDrive with a Shorter Path

Long file paths can prevent Excel from opening synced files. Reconnecting OneDrive closer to the root drive resolves path length limit issues.

Solution 3Recommended

Create a New Windows User Profile

If the issue is isolated to a single user profile while others can access the files, the user profile itself may be corrupted. Recreating it provides a permanent fix.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for Hassle-Free Spreadsheet Management

Tired of dealing with complex synchronization paths and corrupted user profiles in Microsoft Office? WPS Office offers a streamlined, lightweight alternative that effortlessly handles your spreadsheets without the heavy background syncing overhead.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the quick on-screen instructions.
3. Open Your Spreadsheets: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open your existing .xlsx files instantly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel say a synced SharePoint file cannot be found?

This usually happens if the total file path exceeds the 256-character limit imposed by Windows, or if the local OneDrive sync cache has become corrupted.

How do I check if my OneDrive SharePoint sync is working?

Look at the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar notification area. A solid blue cloud indicates it is connected and up to date, while a red 'X' means there is a sync conflict or error.

Will creating a new Windows user profile delete my personal files?

Creating a new profile provides a fresh operating environment, but your old files remain safely in the previous user's folder (C:\Users\[OldUsername]). You should back up your important data before deleting the old profile completely.

Document & File Issues