OneDrive File Issues

Fix SharePoint Files Not Syncing to Windows File Explorer

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 23, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is trying to access SharePoint documents locally but cannot synchronize them to Windows File Explorer due to a OneDrive shortcut conflict.

Fix SharePoint Files Not Syncing to Windows File Explorer

Product: SharePoint and OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to synchronize a SharePoint shared document library so that it appears as a local folder in Windows File Explorer.
Observed behavior: OneDrive blocks the synchronization process, displaying an error message stating that a shortcut to the shared-library folder is already being synchronized.

Before you start

Ensure you are signed into the exact same Microsoft 365 account on your web browser as you are on your desktop OneDrive client before attempting to resolve sync conflicts.

Solution 1Recommended

Remove the Existing OneDrive Shortcut and Re-sync

Resolve the synchronization conflict by deleting the duplicated folder shortcut from your OneDrive web interface before triggering a fresh sync from SharePoint.

This error occurs because OneDrive does not allow a folder to be synced via a direct shortcut and a SharePoint library sync simultaneously. Removing the manual shortcut frees up the path for the native library sync.

Open OneDrive on the Web

Locate and Remove the Shortcut

Find the folder that is causing the sync conflict. Click the ellipsis (three dots) menu next to the folder name and select 'Remove' from the dropdown list.

Return to SharePoint

Navigate back to the original SharePoint document library that you want to synchronize with your PC.

Sync the Document Library

Click the 'Sync' button located on the SharePoint top toolbar. Follow the browser prompt to open OneDrive; the library will now successfully appear in Windows File Explorer.

Remove the Existing OneDrive Shortcut and Re-sync

Sync Successfully Initiated: Once the shortcut conflict is cleared, OneDrive will securely connect the SharePoint library to your local File Explorer under your organization's folder structure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say a shortcut is already syncing?

This happens if you previously used the 'Add shortcut to OneDrive' option on a SharePoint folder. OneDrive prevents the exact same folder from being synced twice (once as a personal shortcut and once as an enterprise shared library) to prevent data corruption.

How do I stop a SharePoint folder from syncing to my PC?

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows system tray, select the gear icon to open Settings, navigate to the 'Account' tab, locate the specific SharePoint location you no longer need, and click 'Stop sync'.

Can I view synced SharePoint files in File Explorer without using up hard drive space?

Yes. Ensure that 'Files On-Demand' is enabled in your OneDrive Settings. This allows you to browse the SharePoint library in File Explorer while keeping the files online-only. They will only download to your local drive when you double-click to open them.

Document & File Issues