OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Connection and Sync Problems on Mac

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to restore the Microsoft 365 connection and resolve OneDrive synchronization failures on a Mac.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive and Microsoft 365
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Attempting to open, use, or sync files to OneDrive from Microsoft 365 applications on a MacBook Pro.
Observed behavior: The MacBook Pro has lost its Microsoft 365 connection, preventing the user from opening OneDrive or saving files to the cloud.

Before you start

Before making system changes, verify that your Mac has an active internet connection and ensure that both macOS and your Microsoft 365 applications are updated to the latest versions.

Solution 1Recommended

Reset OneDrive for macOS

Resetting the OneDrive app can often resolve synchronization bugs and connection errors without affecting your personal files.

A reset forces the application to refresh all synchronization states and clear temporary data that might be causing the connection failure.

Quit OneDrive

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the Mac menu bar, select the gear (Help & Settings) icon, and choose 'Quit OneDrive'.

Open Application Package

Open Finder, go to the Applications folder, right-click the OneDrive app, and select 'Show Package Contents'.

Run Reset Command

Navigate to Contents > Resources and double-click the file named 'ResetOneDriveApp.command' or 'ResetOneDriveAppStandalone.command'.

Restart OneDrive

Launch OneDrive again from your Applications folder and sign in to verify if the file synchronization is restored.

File Safety: Resetting OneDrive will not delete any of your local or cloud files, but it will require the app to perform a full synchronization check upon restarting.

Solution 2

Remove Office License and Reactivate

If resetting OneDrive doesn't work, clearing corrupted Office license files can force the applications to recognize your Microsoft 365 account again.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Experience Hassle-Free Cloud Sync with WPS Office

If persistent Microsoft 365 and OneDrive sync issues are disrupting your workflow on macOS, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides robust, built-in cloud storage options without complicated license management, allowing you to edit and sync your files seamlessly on Mac.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the macOS version.
2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded installer package and follow the quick setup instructions.
3. Sign In and Sync: Log in to your free WPS account to instantly access and manage your cloud storage.

Free, lightweight, and fast installation on MacFully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (DOCX, XLSX, PPTX)Built-in WPS Cloud for effortless file synchronization and backupFamiliar, intuitive user interface for a smooth transition

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is OneDrive not syncing files on my Mac?

Sync issues on Mac can be caused by outdated software, corrupted account authentication, or stuck background processes. Resetting the OneDrive app or updating macOS to the latest version usually resolves these connection problems.

Will I lose my files if I reset OneDrive on Mac?

No, resetting OneDrive does not delete your synced files or local data. It only resets the application's configuration settings and forces a full synchronization check of your existing files once you log back in.

What should I do if the Office License Removal Tool doesn't work?

Ensure all Office applications are completely closed before running the tool. If issues persist, try restarting your Mac, verifying your active subscription status on the Microsoft account website, and checking your internet connection.

Document & File Issues