How to Fix OneDrive Folders Not Syncing in File Explorer
Question details
Users need to resolve an issue where OneDrive folders are visible in File Explorer but fail to synchronize or appear in the 'Choose folders' list.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Synchronizing local desktop files to cloud storage via Windows File Explorer.
- Observed behavior
- Folders appear in File Explorer but do not sync, and they are missing from the OneDrive synchronization menu.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and verify that your local files are safely backed up before modifying registry settings or reinstalling the OneDrive client.
Reset the OneDrive Client
A quick reset resolves most synchronization issues by restarting the OneDrive sync engine without losing your files.
Resetting Microsoft OneDrive can sometimes resolve sync issues and resets all OneDrive settings. OneDrive will perform a full sync after the reset.
Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard simultaneously to open the Run window.
Type %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset into the dialog box and click OK.
Wait for the OneDrive cloud icon in the system tray to disappear and reappear. If it does not reappear after a few minutes, open the Run window again, enter %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe, and press Enter.
Reinstall OneDrive and Clear Configuration Registry
If a simple reset fails, performing a clean installation by clearing previous configurations in the Registry Editor will force a fresh sync connection.
Edit Your Cloud Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
While troubleshooting Microsoft OneDrive sync issues, you might need a reliable and lightweight office suite to keep working on your local documents. WPS Office is a highly compatible, free alternative that supports opening and saving files directly from your local OneDrive directories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will uninstalling OneDrive delete my locally saved files?
No, uninstalling the OneDrive client or resetting it does not delete your local files or the data stored in the cloud. It only removes the syncing software from your PC.
Why are my OneDrive folders missing from the 'Choose folders' list?
This usually happens when the OneDrive sync engine hangs or encounters a configuration glitch in Windows. Resetting the client forces OneDrive to re-scan your directories and display all available folders.
What should I do if the OneDrive icon disappears after a reset and doesn't come back?
You can manually restart the client by pressing Windows Key + R, typing %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe, and pressing Enter to launch the application.
