Fix OneDrive Office File Sync Setting Keeps Turning On
Question details
The user wants to permanently disable the 'Use Office applications to sync Office files that I open' setting in OneDrive, but the option continuously re-enables itself after being cleared.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Configuring OneDrive file synchronization preferences for Office files.
- Observed behavior
- The synchronization setting automatically reverts to the enabled state despite the user actively unchecking the box.
Verify your current OneDrive client version, as this specific setting reversion issue is a known bug linked to certain older builds of the OneDrive application.
Update OneDrive to the Latest Build
Installing a newer production or Insider build of OneDrive resolves the bug that causes the Office sync setting to revert.
This behavior is often caused by a software glitch within specific versions of the OneDrive client (such as build 22.089.0426.0003). Upgrading to a newer version (e.g., build 22.105.0515.0002 or later) successfully restores the ability to permanently disable the setting.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, click the 'Help & Settings' gear icon, and select 'Settings'. Navigate to the 'About' tab to view your current build number.
Visit the official Microsoft OneDrive release notes website to download the latest available version. Alternatively, you can join the OneDrive Insider program through the settings menu to receive early fixes.
Once the update is installed and OneDrive restarts, return to OneDrive Settings > Office tab. Uncheck 'Use Office applications to sync Office files that I open' and click 'OK' to save.
Report the Issue via OneDrive Feedback
If updating does not resolve the issue, submitting diagnostic feedback helps the OneDrive engineering team investigate and provide a fix for your specific device.
Avoid Sync Conflicts with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with OneDrive and Microsoft Office synchronization bugs? Switch to WPS Office for a seamless, lightweight, and highly compatible document editing experience with built-in cloud storage that avoids third-party sync conflicts.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install the application: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Edit seamlessly: Open your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations directly, enjoying reliable auto-save and cloud syncing without the hassle of reverted settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Use Office applications to sync Office files' actually do?
This setting allows Microsoft Office to co-author documents, meaning multiple people can work on the same file simultaneously and share changes in real-time. When turned off, OneDrive handles the syncing entirely on its own, which disables real-time co-authoring.
Will disabling this OneDrive setting delete my files?
No. Disabling this setting only changes how the files synchronize with the cloud. Your files remain safely stored on your local drive and in your OneDrive cloud storage, but you will lose the ability to co-author documents in real-time.
How do I find my current OneDrive version number?
Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar, select the gear icon to open 'Help & Settings', click on 'Settings', and then navigate to the 'About' tab. The build number will be displayed under the 'About Microsoft OneDrive' section.
