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Fix OneDrive Not Synchronizing SharePoint or Teams Folder Shortcuts
Question details
The user needs to safely clear a lingering SharePoint or Teams folder shortcut from Windows File Explorer after removing it from OneDrive on the web.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Removing a synchronized SharePoint or Teams folder shortcut from OneDrive.
- Observed behavior
- The shortcut is successfully removed from the web but remains visible in Windows File Explorer due to a sync issue, causing concerns about accidental deletion of original files.
Before proceeding, do not manually delete the lingering folder directly in Windows File Explorer, as an unexpected sync resumption could delete the original SharePoint or Teams files.
Unlink and Reset the OneDrive Sync Client
Force OneDrive to clear its cache and refresh its connection to safely remove the stuck shortcuts from your local machine.
When the OneDrive local client fails to sync shortcut removals from the web, the most secure approach is to disconnect the account and clear the local cache. This guarantees that your local file explorer will accurately reflect the cloud state without sending erroneous delete commands to SharePoint or Teams.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar, select the Gear icon (Settings), navigate to the 'Account' tab, and click 'Unlink this PC'.
Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray and select 'Quit OneDrive' or 'Close OneDrive' to completely stop the sync engine.
Press Win + R, type 'control', and hit Enter. Go to Credential Manager > Windows Credentials, and remove any entries related to 'OneDrive Cached Credential'.
Restart your computer. Open OneDrive, sign in with your Microsoft account, and follow the setup wizard to configure synchronization again. The lingering shortcuts should now be gone.
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- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free installation package for your operating system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will deleting a OneDrive shortcut in File Explorer delete my original SharePoint files?
If you delete the folder directly in Windows File Explorer while synchronization is stuck or active, there is a risk it may delete the original files on SharePoint or Teams. It is always safer to remove the shortcut via the OneDrive web interface or unlink the PC.
Why do removed SharePoint shortcuts still appear in my local OneDrive folder?
This typically occurs when the local OneDrive sync client gets stuck, loses connection, or experiences a local cache conflict, preventing it from receiving the command that the shortcut was removed from the web.
How can I visually identify a folder shortcut in OneDrive?
In Windows File Explorer, a folder shortcut added from SharePoint or Teams will display a small link icon (a tiny chain or arrow) overlaid on the standard yellow folder icon, distinguishing it from regular native folders.
