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How to Fix OneDrive Not Starting and Repeated Deleted Shortcut Errors on Mac
Question details
The user is unable to launch the OneDrive app to resolve a persistent notification about a deleted shortcut, and is struggling to locate work files on their Mac.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- macOS Monterey
- Scenario
- Attempting to fix recurring OneDrive notifications regarding a removed shortcut and trying to locate organization work files when the desktop application refuses to open.
- Observed behavior
- Clicking the OneDrive app icon results in no action. Attempting to use a downloaded Windows setup file prompts an unsupported OS error. Work files are missing from Finder, leaving only an archive of personal files.
Ensure you are connected to the internet and can successfully log into the web version of OneDrive to verify that your work and personal files are safely stored in the cloud before making changes to the local app.
Reinstall the Proper macOS Version of OneDrive
Since the application will not open and Windows installation files (.exe) do not work on Mac, reinstalling the correct macOS app is required.
A common mistake when troubleshooting OneDrive on a Mac is downloading the Windows installer (OneDriveSetup.exe). Mac computers require applications packaged specifically for macOS (usually .pkg files or downloaded directly from the Mac App Store).
Open Finder, navigate to the Applications folder, locate Microsoft OneDrive, and drag it to the Trash.
Open the Mac App Store and search for 'OneDrive', or go to the official Microsoft download page to get the macOS specific installer.
Run the downloaded installer, follow the on-screen prompts, and launch OneDrive from the Applications folder.
Unlink and Relink Your Account via Web and App
Resetting the sync connection helps clear stuck notifications about deleted shortcuts.
Locate Your Work Files in Finder
Understand how OneDrive separates personal and work directories on a Mac to find your missing files.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Mac say 'Microsoft Windows applications are not supported' when installing OneDrive?
You likely downloaded the Windows installer file, which ends in '.exe'. Macs cannot run Windows executables natively. You must download the macOS version from the Mac App Store or get the '.pkg' installer from Microsoft's website.
Why am I getting repeated notifications about a deleted shortcut in OneDrive?
This usually happens when the local sync client gets stuck trying to synchronize a file or folder shortcut that was already removed on the web version. Unlinking and relinking your account usually clears this syncing error.
Where does OneDrive save my work files on a Mac?
Once synced, work files are stored in a dedicated folder named 'OneDrive - [Your Organization's Name]' located in your Mac's Home directory. This is separate from any folder labeled 'OneDrive-Personal'.
What should I do if the OneDrive app won't open from the Applications folder?
If clicking the icon does nothing, the app may be frozen or corrupted. Force quit it using Activity Monitor, delete it from the Applications folder, and perform a fresh installation from the Mac App Store.
