OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Not Automatically Syncing a New Folder

Natalie Taylor Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

A newly created folder in OneDrive is not synchronizing to other devices, and the user cannot find it in the OneDrive backup settings.

How to Fix OneDrive Not Automatically Syncing a New Folder

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: The user is attempting to sync a custom folder across multiple devices using OneDrive but only sees standard system folders in the backup settings.
Observed behavior: The new folder fails to appear on other devices. In OneDrive backup settings, only standard folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Music, and Videos) are listed, causing confusion between folder backup and standard synchronization.

Before you start

Verify that your device is connected to the internet and that the OneDrive application is running by looking for the cloud icon in your system tray or menu bar.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Sync Settings and Select the Folder Manually

Ensure that OneDrive is actively syncing and that your new folder is checked in the 'Choose folders' settings so it becomes available across devices.

Folders created inside the local OneDrive directory should synchronize automatically. However, if they are excluded in your sync preferences, they will not appear on your device.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar notification area, click the gear (Help & Settings) icon, and select 'Settings'.

Access Folder Selection

Navigate to the 'Account' tab within the settings window and click on the 'Choose folders' button.

Enable the New Folder

Scroll through the list of folders, find your newly created folder, check the box next to it to enable synchronization, and click 'OK'.

Verify Sync Settings and Select the Folder Manually

Synchronization Resumed: Once selected, OneDrive will immediately begin downloading and syncing the folder's contents to your current device.

Solution 2

Move Custom Folders Directly into the OneDrive Directory

If your folder is located outside of OneDrive, you must manually move it into the local OneDrive folder to trigger standard synchronization.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Built-in Cloud Syncing

If navigating complex Microsoft OneDrive sync settings and backup limitations is slowing you down, consider switching to WPS Office. It offers a user-friendly, lightweight experience with its own integrated WPS Cloud, ensuring your documents are safely synchronized across all your devices without the hassle.

Avoid complicated backup configurations with integrated WPS Cloud storage.Highly compatible with Microsoft Office formats including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.Lightweight application that runs smoothly even on older devices.Seamlessly transition your work across Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android platforms.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't my custom folder showing up in the OneDrive 'Manage backup' settings?

The 'Manage backup' feature is exclusively designed to protect standard Windows system folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Music, and Videos). Custom folders will not appear there but will still sync normally if you place them directly inside the main OneDrive directory.

How can I tell if my new folder has finished syncing to OneDrive?

You can check the status icon next to the folder in File Explorer. A solid green circle with a white checkmark indicates the folder is fully synced and available locally. Blue circular arrows mean the synchronization is currently in progress.

Can I use the right-click 'Backup to OneDrive' command on any folder?

No, the right-click 'Backup to OneDrive' option is generally only available for supported standard system folders. For any other folder, you must manually move or copy it into your local OneDrive folder for synchronization to occur.

Document & File Issues