OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix Cannot Download Folders or Multiple Files from OneDrive

Huda Qurayshi Oct 1, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to download folders or multiple selected files from OneDrive for Business or SharePoint Online.

How to Fix Cannot Download Folders or Multiple Files from OneDrive

Product: OneDrive / SharePoint Online
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to download multiple files or a complete folder at once from cloud storage.
Observed behavior: Single files download successfully, but nothing happens when selecting multiple files or folders, failing to trigger the normal ZIP file download process.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and check if pop-ups are blocked in your browser, as this can sometimes prevent the ZIP download prompt from appearing.

Solution 1Recommended

Test with a Different Web Browser

Switching browsers helps rule out cache, extension, or compatibility issues preventing the ZIP creation process.

Browser extensions, outdated caches, or security settings can sometimes block the scripts OneDrive uses to package multiple files into a ZIP archive.

Open an alternative browser

Launch a different supported web browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari.

Log into your account

Navigate to OneDrive for Business or SharePoint Online and sign in with your credentials.

Attempt the download again

Select the folder or multiple files you need, then click the 'Download' button on the top toolbar to see if the ZIP file begins downloading.

Browser Extensions: If it works in another browser, try disabling ad blockers or privacy extensions in your primary browser to isolate the interference.

Solution 2

Revoke SharePoint Online User Session

An IT administrator can force a fresh sign-in by revoking active sessions, which resolves underlying authentication glitches.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage and Edit Your Documents Easily with WPS Office

While troubleshooting cloud download issues, consider using WPS Office to work on your files once they are downloaded. It is a lightweight, feature-rich, and free alternative to Microsoft Office that easily handles all your document needs.

1. Download WPS Office: Get the free installation package directly from the official WPS website.
2. Install the Suite: Follow the simple installation wizard to set up WPS Office on your computer.
3. Open Downloaded Documents: Extract your downloaded OneDrive ZIP file and open the Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files directly in WPS Office.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.Lightweight installation with extremely fast document loading speeds.Built-in cloud storage integration for easy file management.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive download multiple files as a ZIP file?

To save bandwidth and ensure all selected files remain grouped together, OneDrive automatically compresses folders and multiple files into a single ZIP archive before initiating the download to your device.

Is there a size limit for downloading folders from OneDrive?

Yes, OneDrive typically limits multiple-file and folder downloads to a total size of 250 GB and a maximum of 10,000 files per ZIP download operation.

Can a browser extension block OneDrive folder downloads?

Yes, strict privacy extensions, ad blockers, or pop-up blockers can sometimes interfere with OneDrive's background scripts required to package and download ZIP files. Disabling them temporarily often resolves the issue.

How do I extract the downloaded ZIP file on my computer?

Once the ZIP file is completely downloaded, right-click on the file and select 'Extract All' on Windows, or simply double-click the file on Mac to access your individual documents.

Document & File Issues