How to Fix Corrupted SharePoint Files from a Synced Mac Folder
Question details
Users experience file corruption when opening documents from a SharePoint-synced folder using OneDrive on a Mac, whereas older downloaded versions remain fully usable.
- Product
- SharePoint / OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Opening and syncing files from a SharePoint document library via the OneDrive desktop client on macOS.
- Observed behavior
- Synced files become corrupted upon opening, indicating potential OneDrive synchronization errors or backend SharePoint storage issues.
Before troubleshooting the sync client, immediately download and back up any older, unaffected versions of your files directly from the SharePoint web interface to prevent further data loss.
Restore OneDrive to an Earlier Point in Time
Use OneDrive's built-in restore feature to revert your entire synced library to a state before the file corruption occurred.
This solution is highly effective if the file corruption is recent and caused by a widespread sync glitch. It will undo all actions that occurred on both files and folders within the selected timeframe.
Log into your Microsoft 365 account via a web browser and navigate to OneDrive or the affected SharePoint document library.
Click the gear icon (Settings) in the top right corner and select 'Restore your OneDrive' (or 'Restore this library' in SharePoint).
Choose a date from the dropdown menu that predates the corruption issue, review the activity chart, and click 'Restore' to revert your files.
Stop Syncing and Test a New SharePoint Library
Disconnect the current corrupted sync connection and test synchronization with a newly created document library to bypass local cache conflicts.
Contact Microsoft 365 Support for Backend Investigation
If local troubleshooting fails, the issue may be rooted in SharePoint storage services requiring backend investigation by Microsoft.
Work Offline and Avoid Sync Issues with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with corrupted files due to OneDrive or SharePoint sync errors on your Mac? WPS Office offers a free, lightweight, and stable alternative for editing your documents. With flawless Microsoft Office format compatibility, you can safely work offline or manage files locally without relying on problematic background syncs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the Mac version for free.
- 2. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and open your downloaded Office files directly from your local drive.
- 3. Save and Manage: Edit your documents and save them locally or back them up using WPS Cloud for secure access.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I access previous uncorrupted versions of my SharePoint files?
Log into SharePoint Online via your web browser, navigate to your document library, click the three vertical dots next to the corrupted file, and select 'Version History'. From there, you can view and restore an older, uncorrupted version of the document.
Why are files on my Mac getting corrupted during SharePoint sync?
This issue is typically caused by conflicts within the OneDrive for Mac sync client, local caching errors, or interruptions in your internet connection while files are updating in the background between your Mac and SharePoint.
Will stopping the sync in OneDrive delete my files from SharePoint?
No. Clicking 'Stop sync' in your Mac's OneDrive preferences only severs the local connection. Your files remain completely safe and accessible in the SharePoint online library.
