OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Files Stuck Syncing and Change Status

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 13, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to change the sync status of OneDrive files and resolve issues where files are stuck syncing or displaying file-in-use errors.

How to Fix OneDrive Files Stuck in Sync and Change File Status

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing cloud storage synchronization to ensure local files remain accessible without getting stuck in endless sync loops.
Observed behavior: OneDrive files remain unavailable during synchronization, show locked or file-in-use messages, and numerous files can remain stuck syncing for months.

Before you start

Before modifying your OneDrive settings, check your internet connection and completely close any applications or Office programs that might be actively using the stuck files.

Solution 1Recommended

Reduce Synchronization Load by Selecting Specific Folders

Adjust your OneDrive settings to sync only necessary folders, which helps clear out syncing queues and keeps online-only files from bogging down your system.

When OneDrive attempts to synchronize too many folders at once, it can cause files to get stuck or become temporarily unavailable. By clearing folders you do not need offline, you can reduce the sync load.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray or taskbar, click the Gear (Help & Settings) icon, and select 'Settings'.

Navigate to Account Options

In the Settings window, click on the 'Account' tab to view your current synchronization details.

Choose Folders to Sync

Click the 'Choose folders' button. Uncheck the folders that you want to keep as online-only to remove them from your local computer, then click 'OK'.

Reduce Synchronization Load by Selecting Specific Folders

Online Availability: Folders you uncheck will be removed from your local hard drive but will remain safely stored and accessible online via your OneDrive web portal.

Solution 2

Resolve File-in-Use Errors and Restart OneDrive

Fix locked file errors by closing active applications and restarting the OneDrive client to force a fresh synchronization check.

Solution 3

Adjust Upload and Download Sync Rates

Modify network limits within OneDrive to ensure the application has enough bandwidth to process stuck files efficiently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say my file is in use?

This occurs when another application or background process is currently interacting with the file. To fix it, ensure you close all programs that might have the file open, then restart the OneDrive application.

How can I ensure my files are always available offline?

Open File Explorer, locate your OneDrive folder, right-click the file or folder you need, and select 'Always keep on this device'. The status icon will change to a solid green circle with a white checkmark, indicating it is permanently available offline.

What should I do if hundreds of files are stuck syncing?

First, try pausing and resuming the sync from the OneDrive taskbar menu. If that fails, go to Account settings in OneDrive, click 'Choose folders', and temporarily uncheck large folders to clear the queue before re-enabling them.

Does resetting OneDrive delete my local files?

No, resetting the OneDrive application using the 'onedrive.exe /reset' command only resets the synchronization settings and clears the sync queue. Your actual files remain safe on your device and in your cloud storage.

Document & File Issues