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Fix OneDrive Files Not Syncing After Windows 10 Update
Question details
The user needs to restore OneDrive file synchronization functionality after a recent system update disrupted the service.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Attempting to sync local desktop files to the OneDrive cloud after installing a Windows 10 update.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive has stopped syncing files, displays a red X error icon on the Desktop folder, and the standard app reset process fails to complete.
Before making changes to your account settings, verify your internet connection is stable and temporarily copy any critical unsynced files (marked with a red X) to a separate local folder or external USB drive.
Unlink and Reconnect Your OneDrive Account
Disconnecting your PC from OneDrive and clearing saved credentials often resolves authentication conflicts caused by recent Windows updates.
Windows updates can occasionally corrupt the cached login credentials that OneDrive uses to silently connect to Microsoft's servers. By unlinking the account and clearing these outdated credentials, you force the application to establish a fresh, error-free connection.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar notification area. Select the Help & Settings gear icon, then click Settings. Go to the Account tab and click 'Unlink this PC'.
Click the Windows Start menu, type 'Credential Manager' into the search bar, and hit Enter. Select 'Windows Credentials'.
Scroll down to the Generic Credentials section. Look for any entries starting with 'OneDrive Cached Credential'. Click the drop-down arrow next to them and select 'Remove'.
Open the OneDrive application again from your Start menu. Enter your Microsoft account email and password to re-establish the connection and begin syncing.
Manually Upload Files to OneDrive Web
If the desktop application continues to fail, manually uploading files ensures your data is backed up safely while you continue troubleshooting.
Try WPS Office and WPS Cloud for Reliable File Syncing
If OneDrive sync issues persist and disrupt your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, complete with its own reliable WPS Cloud service for seamless cross-device document synchronization.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free software suite for your Windows PC.
- 2. Sign Up for WPS Cloud: Create a free WPS account to unlock built-in cloud storage directly within the application.
- 3. Save and Sync: Create your documents and save them directly to WPS Cloud for instant, hassle-free synchronization across your computer and mobile devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my OneDrive Desktop folder have a red X on it?
A red X indicates that a file or folder cannot be synced to the cloud. This usually happens due to credential authentication conflicts, a lack of cloud storage space, or a stalled sync engine following a system update.
Will unlinking my PC from OneDrive delete my local files?
No, unlinking your PC only stops the synchronization process. Your downloaded files remain safely on your computer's local hard drive, and your cloud files remain safe online.
What should I do if the OneDrive reset command fails?
If running the reset command via the Run dialog fails, you can try reinstalling the OneDrive application entirely. Download the latest version from the official Microsoft website or the Microsoft Store and run the installer.
How do I know if my OneDrive sync issue is fixed?
Once the issue is resolved, the red X icons on your files and folders will change to a solid green checkmark (always available) or a blue cloud icon (online-only), and clicking the taskbar icon will display 'Up to date'.
