SharePoint Document Issues

Fix SharePoint Library Not Syncing Due to Shortcut Error

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to sync a SharePoint library to File Explorer because an error indicates that a shortcut to a shared folder is already syncing.

Product: SharePoint
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to sync a SharePoint library to a local File Explorer folder after installing Windows updates.
Observed behavior: SharePoint stops syncing and displays an error stating a shortcut to a folder from the shared library is already being synced, despite having sufficient local disk space.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and pause any ongoing OneDrive sync tasks before attempting to troubleshoot the SharePoint shortcut conflict.

Solution 1Recommended

Check and Remove Conflicting OneDrive Shortcuts

Remove any existing shortcuts to the SharePoint folder in your OneDrive online to resolve sync conflicts.

Microsoft OneDrive cannot simultaneously sync a SharePoint library and a shortcut pointing to the same shared folder. Removing the shortcut from your personal OneDrive resolves this conflict.

Log into OneDrive Online

Open your web browser, navigate to OneDrive online, and log in with your Microsoft account credentials.

Locate the shortcut

Look through your 'My files' list for any folders that have a small link icon over them, indicating they are shortcuts to a shared SharePoint folder.

Remove the shortcut

Select the shortcut, click 'Remove' from the top menu, and then try syncing the SharePoint library again from your desktop.

Data Safety: Removing the shortcut from your OneDrive will not delete the actual files located in the SharePoint shared library.

Solution 2

Unlink and Reset the OneDrive App

Unlinking your account and resetting the OneDrive app can clear cached sync conflicts and force a fresh connection.

Solution 3

Review Sync Limitations and Storage Limits

Check if your SharePoint library exceeds OneDrive's file count or sync size restrictions, which can prevent syncing.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Looking for a Hassle-Free Office Suite? Try WPS Office

If you frequently encounter syncing conflicts and account issues with Microsoft Office applications, WPS Office offers a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for your document needs. It supports seamless local and cloud file management without the complex shortcut errors.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Built-in robust cloud storage and simplified local file management.Lightweight installation with a familiar, easy-to-use interface.Completely free basic version with no complex account sync limitations.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does SharePoint say a shortcut is already syncing?

This happens when you previously used the 'Add shortcut to OneDrive' feature for a shared folder. The sync engine cannot simultaneously process a full SharePoint library sync and a separate shortcut pointing to the same data.

Will removing a shortcut delete my SharePoint files?

No, removing a shortcut from your OneDrive only deletes the pointer link in your personal view. The actual files and data remain safely stored in the original SharePoint shared library.

Is there a file size or count limit for SharePoint syncing?

Yes, Microsoft recommends syncing no more than 300,000 files across all your OneDrive and SharePoint libraries to maintain optimal performance, even if you have plenty of local disk space available.

Document & File Issues