OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Folders Different on Two Computers

Natalie Taylor Sep 29, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user is experiencing file discrepancies where OneDrive folders and files appear on one computer but are missing on another despite using the same account.

Fix OneDrive Folders Showing Differently on Two Computers

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Accessing and synchronizing files and folders across multiple computers via a single OneDrive account.
Observed behavior: Certain files or folders are visible on the primary computer but fail to show up on the secondary computer.

Before you start

Verify that both computers have an active internet connection and are logged into the exact same Microsoft account before attempting to troubleshoot sync settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Select the Same Folders for Synchronization

Use this solution to ensure that both computers are configured to sync and display the exact same directories from your cloud storage.

OneDrive allows users to selectively sync specific folders to save local hard drive space. If a folder is unchecked on one computer, it will remain strictly in the cloud and will not appear in that device's File Explorer.

Open OneDrive Settings

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

Navigate to Account Settings

In the Settings window, click on the 'Account' tab on the left sidebar.

Choose Folders to Sync

Click the 'Choose folders' button. Scroll through the list and make sure the checkboxes for the missing folders are ticked, then click 'OK' to start downloading them to the local machine.

Select the Same Folders for Synchronization

Storage Space Alert: Selecting large folders for synchronization will consume local hard drive space. Ensure the second computer has enough storage capacity before syncing.

Solution 2

Verify PC Folder Backup Settings

Check your backup settings to ensure critical system folders like Desktop, Documents, and Pictures are actively uploading to OneDrive.

Solution 3

Resolve Sync Errors and Conflicts

Address underlying synchronization errors or file conflicts that are pausing the upload or download process.

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Try WPS Office for Seamless Cross-Device File Management

If you frequently encounter synchronization errors or find Microsoft Office and OneDrive complicated to manage across multiple computers, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a lightweight, fully compatible alternative that integrates its own reliable cloud storage to keep your workflow uninterrupted.

1. Download WPS Office: Install WPS Office on both of your computers.
2. Sign In to Your Account: Log in using the same WPS account on both devices to activate WPS Cloud.
3. Save and Sync: Save your documents directly to WPS Cloud for instant, conflict-free access on the second computer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some files have a cloud icon while others have a green checkmark?

A cloud icon means the file is available online only and doesn't take up local space until you open it. A green checkmark indicates the file is downloaded and physically stored on your local computer, allowing for offline access.

Can I force OneDrive to sync immediately?

Yes. You can force a sync by clicking the OneDrive icon in your taskbar, clicking the gear icon, selecting 'Pause syncing' for 2 hours, and then immediately clicking 'Resume syncing'. This forces OneDrive to scan for and process changes.

If I delete a file on one computer, will it be deleted on the other?

Yes. OneDrive mirrors your actions across all connected devices. If you delete a synchronized file on one computer, it is moved to the OneDrive Recycle Bin and will be removed from all other computers using that account.

What happens if both computers edit the same file while offline?

When both computers reconnect to the internet, OneDrive will detect a conflict. It will usually append your computer's name to one of the files, creating a duplicate, so you can manually review and merge the changes without losing data.

Document & File Issues