OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Stuck on Preparing When Uploading Files

Algirdas Jasaitis Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is attempting to upload approximately 6,500 files to OneDrive, but the process fails.

How to Fix OneDrive Stuck on Preparing When Uploading Files

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Uploading a large batch of files to the cloud using the OneDrive desktop client.
Observed behavior: OneDrive detects the files but gets permanently stuck on 'Preparing', eventually displaying a blank window without uploading the files or showing them online.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and verify that your files do not exceed OneDrive's maximum file size limits or contain unsupported special characters in their names.

Solution 1Recommended

Unlink and Relink Your PC to OneDrive

Disconnecting and reconnecting your Microsoft account forces the OneDrive client to refresh its sync settings and clear temporary connection glitches.

Unlinking your PC will not delete your local files or your files in the cloud. It simply breaks the sync connection so you can establish a fresh one.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click on the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar notification area, click the gear icon (Help & Settings), and select 'Settings'.

Unlink this PC

Navigate to the 'Account' tab and click on the 'Unlink this PC' link.

Sign back in

Once the OneDrive setup screen appears, enter your Microsoft account credentials to sign back in and reconfigure your sync folders.

Sync Resumed: After signing back in, OneDrive will check your files. Allow it some time to process the 6,500 files before checking if the upload resumes.

Solution 2

Reset the OneDrive Desktop Client

If unlinking doesn't work, completely resetting the OneDrive application can resolve deep-seated synchronization stalls and frozen processes.

Solution 3

Upload Files Manually in Smaller Batches

Processing over 6,000 files at once can overwhelm the sync engine. Uploading smaller groups via the web helps identify if specific corrupted files are causing the issue.

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If Microsoft OneDrive and Office keep causing sync freezes or 'Preparing' loops, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, robust platform with built-in WPS Cloud storage, eliminating reliance on standalone sync clients while maintaining full compatibility with Microsoft formats.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installer.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive get stuck on 'Preparing'?

This usually happens when the OneDrive sync engine tries to process an exceptionally large batch of files (like thousands of items) at once, or when it encounters a file with an unsupported character or restricted permission.

Will resetting OneDrive delete my local files?

No, resetting the OneDrive app will not delete any files from your hard drive or the cloud. It simply forces the sync engine to restart and rescan your files to establish a fresh connection.

How many files can I upload to OneDrive at once?

While OneDrive allows you to store millions of files, attempting to upload thousands of files simultaneously via the desktop client can cause performance issues or stalls. It is highly recommended to transfer massive amounts of data in smaller batches.

Document & File Issues