OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Stuck on Preparing for Upload

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to resolve an issue where OneDrive remains continuously stuck on 'Preparing for upload' after reconnecting their account.

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Reconnecting a OneDrive account and attempting to access or synchronize local document files.
Observed behavior: OneDrive is stuck on 'Preparing for upload', local Word, Excel, and PDF files cannot be accessed, and duplicate OneDrive folders have appeared. The files are still accessible online.

Before you start

Verify that your files are safely stored and accessible via OneDrive online, and do not manually delete any duplicate local OneDrive folders to avoid accidental data loss before troubleshooting.

Solution 1Recommended

Modify the OneDrive Registry Entry

Adjusting the specific OneDrive shell-folder registry key can resolve synchronization loops and local folder conflicts.

This issue is often caused by a conflict in local synchronization settings. Modifying the class ID associated with OneDrive in the system registry can reset its behavior and allow syncing to resume.

Open Registry Editor

Press the Windows key + R, type 'regedit' into the Run dialog, and press Enter to launch the Registry Editor.

Navigate to the OneDrive CLSID

Go to the following path: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{018D5C66-4533-4307-9B53-224DE2ED1FE6}.

Modify the Value

Double-click the default value entry, change its data value to 0, and click OK to save.

Restart Your Computer

Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to apply the changes and let OneDrive attempt to sync again.

Registry Backup Recommended: Always back up your registry before making changes. Incorrectly modifying the registry can cause system instability.

Solution 2

Reinstall the OneDrive Application

If registry modifications do not work, reinstalling OneDrive can clear out corrupted installation files and local settings.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Work Seamlessly with WPS Office

If you frequently encounter synchronization errors or accessibility issues with Microsoft Office files on OneDrive, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, lightweight, and free alternative that allows you to easily edit Word, Excel, and PDF documents locally and online.

1. Download WPS Office: Go to the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the instructions to set up WPS Office on your device.
3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and directly open your local files to continue editing without relying on external sync engines.

Excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Lightweight installation that performs smoothly without taxing system resources.Built-in cloud integration for a reliable alternative to external sync clients.User-friendly, all-in-one tabbed interface for managing documents, spreadsheets, and PDFs.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Are my files lost if OneDrive is stuck on preparing for upload?

No. As long as you can still access and open the files via OneDrive online, your data is securely backed up in the cloud. The issue is strictly related to the local sync client on your device.

Why did duplicate OneDrive folders appear on my computer?

Duplicate folders can be created when you reconnect an account and the sync engine encounters a conflict with an existing local directory. It is highly advised not to delete either folder manually to prevent accidental data loss.

What if reinstalling OneDrive and editing the registry doesn't fix the sync issue?

If both modifying the registry and reinstalling the application fail to resolve the problem, you should contact official Microsoft OneDrive Support for advanced assistance before attempting to move or alter the inaccessible local files.

Document & File Issues