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Fix OneDrive Not Syncing Files from an External Drive
Question details
The user needs to resolve synchronization problems that occur when OneDrive folders are redirected to an external drive.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Redirecting the Documents and Pictures folders to an external USB drive for OneDrive cloud synchronization.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive fails to sync files correctly, resulting in synchronization errors and potential file corruption, especially when files are moved to subfolders or edited while the drive is disconnected.
Ensure your external USB drive is physically connected to a functioning USB port and properly recognized by your computer's file explorer before checking OneDrive.
Ensure the External Drive Remains Connected During Sync Cycles
Keep the external drive securely connected during system boot, shutdown, and active synchronization to allow OneDrive continuous access to the files.
OneDrive signs in and begins syncing automatically when your computer starts. If the external drive containing your redirected folders is not available during this process, OneDrive will fail to sync.
Plug your external USB drive into the computer's USB port before pressing the power button to turn on your device.
Log into your operating system, open File Explorer, and verify that the external drive letter is mounted and accessible.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the taskbar system tray to open the flyout menu and confirm that it is successfully scanning for changes or displays 'Up to date'.
Verify Folder Redirection Procedure
Check that the Documents and Pictures folders were redirected using the official system properties method rather than being manually moved.
Experience Reliable Cloud Syncing with WPS Office
If managing Microsoft OneDrive on external drives continues to cause synchronization errors and file corruption, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides an all-in-one workspace with integrated cloud storage, eliminating the need for complex external drive folder redirections.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the Free Download button to get the setup file.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts to install WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Sign In to Sync: Launch the application, create or sign into your WPS account, and start saving your documents directly to WPS Cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneDrive fail to sync when I move files to a new subfolder on my external drive?
If the external drive is disconnected or experiences a brief connection drop while files are being moved or edited, OneDrive cannot locate the new directory path, causing the synchronization process to fail.
Can I leave my external USB drive connected during every startup and shutdown?
While it is necessary for OneDrive to sync properly on boot, standard external USB drives are not always designed for continuous connection during power cycles. Doing so may occasionally lead to file corruption if the system shuts off power to the port abruptly.
How do I safely safely remove my external drive without corrupting OneDrive files?
Before removing the drive, click the OneDrive icon in the system tray, click the gear icon, and select 'Pause syncing'. Once syncing is paused, use the 'Safely Remove Hardware' feature in your taskbar to eject the external drive securely.
