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OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Not Signing In or Syncing on Windows 10

Olivia MillerOlivia Miller Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to sign in or synchronize files using the OneDrive desktop client on a newly updated computer.

How to Fix OneDrive Not Signing In or Syncing on Windows 10
Product
OneDrive
Device & OS
Windows 10
Scenario
Setting up and signing into the OneDrive application on a recently updated Windows 10 PC to sync cloud files.
Observed behavior
The OneDrive client remains infinitely stuck on the loading screen during the sign-in process, and file synchronization completely fails despite checking registry and group policy settings.
Before you start

Ensure your Windows 10 operating system has all the latest updates installed, and temporarily pause any third-party antivirus, firewall, or ad-blocking software to rule out network restrictions.

Solution 1Recommended

Reset the OneDrive Client

Resetting the OneDrive application clears its local cache and resolves internal glitches that cause the app to get stuck on the sign-in loading screen.

This is the most effective solution for resolving a frozen loading screen on Windows 10. Resetting OneDrive will not delete any of your cloud or local files, but it will force the app to re-sync your data.

1
Open the Run dialog

Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard simultaneously to open the Run command window.

2
Execute the reset command

Type '%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset' into the text box and press Enter or click OK.

3
Wait for restart

Watch the system tray (bottom-right corner of your screen). The OneDrive cloud icon will disappear and then reappear after a minute or two.

4
Launch manually if needed

If the OneDrive icon does not reappear automatically, open the Start menu, search for 'OneDrive', and click the app to launch it manually.

Reset the OneDrive Client
No Data Loss: Resetting the app simply refreshes the background processes. Your files remain completely safe during this procedure.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my OneDrive stuck on the 'Signing in' loading screen?

This typically occurs due to corrupted application cache data, outdated Windows 10 components, or overly restrictive network firewalls blocking communication with Microsoft's servers. Running the reset command usually clears the bug.

Does my choice of web browser affect the OneDrive desktop client?

While the desktop client operates independently, troubleshooting through a privacy-focused browser like Brave can obscure the root cause if browser shields block authentication scripts. Testing with Microsoft Edge helps verify if your Microsoft account and network are functioning properly.

Will resetting or unlinking OneDrive delete my local files?

No. Resetting the app or unlinking your account only clears the application settings and connection state. Your files stored locally on your hard drive and in the cloud remain untouched.

How do I reinstall OneDrive on Windows 10 if resetting doesn't work?

You can reinstall OneDrive by going to Windows Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Search for Microsoft OneDrive, click Uninstall. Once removed, download the latest version from the official Microsoft website and install it.