Fix OneDrive Office File Sync Setting Reverting to Enabled
Question details
Users are unable to permanently disable the OneDrive setting that uses Office applications to sync opened files, as the setting repeatedly re-enables itself.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to disable the Office application sync feature in the OneDrive client settings.
- Observed behavior
- The checkbox for using Office applications to sync files automatically becomes selected again after the user unchecks it and saves the settings.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and have saved all your open Office documents to prevent any data loss before restarting or updating the OneDrive client.
Update OneDrive to the Latest Release
Installing the latest OneDrive update resolves the known bug associated with specific older builds that causes the sync setting to revert.
This issue is a confirmed bug affecting specific OneDrive versions. Microsoft has released an update that addresses the registry saving behavior for this setting.
Users have confirmed that version builds such as 22.105.0515.0002 and newer contain the fix for this issue.
Visit the official Microsoft OneDrive download page or check for Windows Updates to obtain the newest version of the OneDrive client.
Run the downloaded executable file to install the newest build over your existing OneDrive application.
Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, select 'Quit OneDrive', and then relaunch the application from your Start menu.
Navigate back to OneDrive Settings, uncheck the Office file sync option, save, and reopen the settings to verify it remains disabled.
Report the Issue via OneDrive Feedback
If you are already on the latest version and the issue persists, report the bug directly so the development team can investigate your specific build.
Switch to WPS Office for Seamless File Management
If persistent sync bugs and setting resets in Microsoft Office and OneDrive are disrupting your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight alternative that offers seamless document editing without forced synchronization conflicts.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Get the official WPS Office installer for your operating system from the WPS website.
- 2. Install and Launch: Run the quick installer to set up the lightweight WPS Office suite on your computer.
- 3. Open your files instantly: Simply double-click your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files to open them securely in WPS Office without formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the OneDrive Office file sync setting keep turning back on?
This is caused by a known bug in specific builds of the OneDrive desktop client. The application fails to save the user preference correctly in the system registry, causing the setting to revert to its default enabled state.
What does the 'Use Office applications to sync Office files' setting actually do?
When enabled, this setting allows Office applications to co-author documents in real time and handle the synchronization of open files directly. When disabled, the OneDrive client handles the file syncing independently.
Will reinstalling Microsoft Office fix this OneDrive sync issue?
No, reinstalling Office typically does not resolve this specific issue, as the bug is isolated to the OneDrive client's version builds. Updating the OneDrive application itself is the correct solution.
How can I check my current OneDrive version?
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar, select the gear icon for Help & Settings, navigate to the 'Settings' menu, and look for the version number listed under the 'About' tab.
