OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Camera Upload Working on Mobile Data but Not Wi-Fi

Algirdas Jasaitis Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to fix an issue where OneDrive camera upload fails on a Wi-Fi connection but works properly when using mobile data.

How to Fix OneDrive Camera Upload Working on Mobile Data but Not Wi-Fi

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: Android
Scenario: Syncing photos from an Android camera roll to OneDrive over a Wi-Fi network.
Observed behavior: Camera synchronization fails or pauses when restricted to Wi-Fi only, but successfully resumes and uploads when mobile data is enabled.

Before you start

Ensure your Wi-Fi network has an active internet connection and is not configured as a metered network in your Android settings, as this can block background data usage.

Solution 1Recommended

Configure OneDrive for Wi-Fi-Only Synchronization

Verify that OneDrive is explicitly configured to allow camera uploads over Wi-Fi networks.

Incorrect sync preferences within the OneDrive app can prevent the camera roll from uploading over certain networks. Ensuring the settings explicitly allow Wi-Fi uploads is the first troubleshooting step.

Open OneDrive Settings

Launch the OneDrive app on your Android device, tap your profile icon or the 'Me' tab at the bottom right, and select 'Settings'.

Access Camera Upload Preferences

Tap on 'Camera upload' from the settings menu to view your current synchronization configurations.

Adjust Network Settings

Look for the 'Upload using' or similar network preference option. Ensure it is set to 'Wi-Fi only' or 'Wi-Fi and mobile network' depending on your preference, but confirm Wi-Fi is actively selected.

Configure OneDrive for Wi-Fi-Only Synchronization

Solution 2

Disable Battery and Background Data Restrictions

Remove system-level restrictions that prevent OneDrive from utilizing Wi-Fi data while running in the background.

Solution 3

Clear App Data and Reconfigure Camera Upload

Clear the application's cached data to resolve stubborn configuration glitches without deleting your cloud files.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say 'Waiting for Wi-Fi' when I am already connected?

This usually happens if your Android device detects the Wi-Fi network as a metered connection, or if the network temporarily has no active internet access. Check your Android Wi-Fi settings, select your network, and ensure it is set to 'Treat as unmetered'.

Will clearing the OneDrive app data delete my uploaded photos?

No, clearing the app data only resets the local app settings and removes cached files from your phone. Your previously uploaded photos remain safely stored in your Microsoft account in the cloud.

How do I force OneDrive to sync my camera roll immediately?

You can force a synchronization by opening the OneDrive app, navigating to the Photos tab, and pulling down from the top of the screen to refresh. Ensure the app remains open in the foreground while the initial sync establishes a connection.

Document & File Issues