OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Still Uploading Excluded MP4 Files in Windows 11

Maira Mehtab Oct 8, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users need to stop OneDrive from uploading MP4 files after adding the file extension to the synchronization exclusion list, as the application continues to sync them despite the settings.

How to Fix OneDrive Still Uploading Excluded MP4 Files in Windows 11

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Attempting to save cloud storage space and bandwidth by excluding large MP4 video files from automatically syncing to OneDrive.
Observed behavior: OneDrive ignores the configured file extension exclusion rules and continues to upload MP4 files. Standard troubleshooting, such as resetting the app or clearing temporary files, does not resolve the issue.

Before you start

Verify that your OneDrive application is fully updated to the latest version, as Microsoft occasionally releases silent patches for synchronization engine bugs.

Solution 1Recommended

Move MP4 Files Outside the OneDrive Sync Directory

Since the built-in file exclusion feature is currently failing due to a known bug, physically storing your MP4 videos outside of any OneDrive-managed folder is the most reliable way to prevent unwanted uploads.

OneDrive automatically syncs all files located within its designated folders (like Desktop, Documents, and Pictures if backup is enabled). Until Microsoft patches the exclusion bug, manual file relocation is necessary.

Create a local directory

Open File Explorer and navigate to a location outside your OneDrive folder, such as C:\LocalVideos or a separate local drive.

Relocate the MP4 files

Select the MP4 files currently in your OneDrive folder, cut them (Ctrl+X), and paste them (Ctrl+V) into the newly created local directory.

Update application save paths

If you use video editing or screen recording software, open the software's settings and update the default save or export location to point to this new local directory instead of a OneDrive-synced folder.

Move MP4 Files Outside the OneDrive Sync Directory

Storage Space Freed: Moving large MP4 files out of the sync folder will immediately free up your OneDrive cloud storage quota once the server registers the local file removal.

Solution 2

Submit Diagnostic Reports and Wait for Updates

Since resetting OneDrive does not fix this specific bug, reporting your system's diagnostic data helps Microsoft isolate the issue for an upcoming software patch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my excluded MP4 files still syncing to OneDrive?

This is a known bug in certain versions of OneDrive on Windows 11 where the synchronization engine ignores the file extension exclusion list. Microsoft engineers are aware of the issue and are expected to release a patch in a future update.

Does resetting OneDrive fix the file exclusion bug?

No. Based on extensive user testing and reports, resetting the OneDrive app or clearing temporary cache files does not resolve this specific issue with MP4 exclusions.

Can I temporarily pause OneDrive to stop the MP4 uploads?

Yes, you can pause synchronization. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, click the Settings (gear) icon, and select 'Pause syncing'. Choose a timeframe (2, 8, or 24 hours). This gives you time to move the MP4 files out of the sync folder.

Can I uninstall OneDrive from Windows 11 entirely?

Yes. If you no longer wish to use the service, you can uninstall it by navigating to Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps, searching for 'Microsoft OneDrive', and selecting 'Uninstall'.

Document & File Issues