OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Stuck on Loading When Copying a File in the Same Folder

WPS Editor Oct 9, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to duplicate or copy a file within the same folder using the OneDrive web interface due to an endless loading spinner.

How to Fix OneDrive Stuck on Loading When Copying a File in the Same Folder

Product: OneDrive Web
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to copy or duplicate an existing file into its current directory via the OneDrive web browser interface.
Observed behavior: The interface hangs indefinitely on a loading spinner instead of creating a copy of the selected file.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and check the Microsoft Service Health status page to verify if there are any ongoing server outages affecting OneDrive online services.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Browser Cache or Try an Alternative Browser

Browser-related glitches or corrupted cache data can often cause web interfaces to hang on loading screens when executing copy scripts.

Often, web applications like OneDrive fail to complete requests because of outdated cache files or conflicting browser extensions. Isolating the browser environment helps determine if the issue is local or server-side.

Try a different browser

Switch to a different supported browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox, log into OneDrive, and attempt to copy the file again.

Use Incognito or Private mode

Open a Private or Incognito window in your current browser to temporarily disable extensions and bypass existing cache, then try duplicating the file.

Clear browsing data

If the issue goes away in a private window, go to your browser settings, navigate to the Privacy or History section, and clear your cached images and files.

Clear Browser Cache or Try an Alternative Browser

Capture an Error Log: If the loading spinner persists across all browsers, press F12 to open Developer Tools, check the 'Console' tab for any red error messages, and capture a screenshot for further Microsoft support.

Solution 2

Duplicate the File Using the Desktop Sync Client

Bypassing the web interface entirely by using your local synced folder allows you to easily duplicate the file using your operating system's native tools.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive get stuck on a loading spinner when copying files?

This is usually caused by browser cache conflicts, temporary server-side glitches, or ad-blocking extensions failing to execute the web duplication script properly.

Can I duplicate a file in the same folder on the OneDrive mobile app?

Yes, open the OneDrive app on your phone, tap the three dots next to the file, select 'Copy', and choose the current folder as the destination to create a duplicate instantly.

Are there file size limits that prevent copying in OneDrive?

Yes, while standard document copying works fine, extremely large files (e.g., massive video files) might time out or appear stuck on the web interface. For large files, it is highly recommended to use the local desktop sync client to duplicate them.

Document & File Issues