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How to Fix OneDrive Sync Stuck and Shared Files Not Updating
Question details
Users need to resolve a synchronization issue where a shared OneDrive folder containing PDF files stops updating, preventing new or edited files from appearing for other collaborators.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Collaborating on and syncing a shared folder containing approximately 250 MB of PDF files with other users via OneDrive.
- Observed behavior
- The OneDrive synchronization is stuck in a pending or partial state, causing new and edited PDF files to not appear in the shared folder for other users.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and verify that the OneDrive application is actively running in your system tray or menu bar before attempting these fixes.
Remove Blocking Files and Reset OneDrive
Clear hidden, temporary, or unsupported Outlook data files that commonly block the sync process, then perform a complete reset of the OneDrive application.
Often, OneDrive synchronization gets stuck when it encounters hidden system files, temporary Office files (usually starting with a tilde ~), or large Outlook data files (.pst or .ost) within the shared folder.
Resetting the OneDrive client forces the application to perform a full scan and resynchronization of your files without deleting local data.
Open File Explorer. Click on the 'View' tab at the top and check the box for 'Hidden items' to reveal any hidden or temporary files in your shared OneDrive folder.
Search for temporary files (e.g., ~$filename.pdf) or Outlook data files (.pst/.ost) in the shared folder. Delete the temporary files and move any Outlook files outside of the OneDrive directory.
Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard simultaneously to open the Run window.
Type %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset and press Enter. The OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray will disappear and reappear after a minute or two.
If the OneDrive icon does not reappear after a few minutes, open the Start menu, search for 'OneDrive', and click the application to launch it manually.
Upload Files Manually via OneDrive Web
Bypass the desktop synchronization client by directly uploading the missing or unsynchronized PDF files through the OneDrive web interface.
Collaborate on PDFs and Documents Effortlessly with WPS Office
If OneDrive synchronization continues to cause delays for your shared PDFs, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a built-in cloud service for seamless document collaboration, lightweight PDF editing, and excellent stability without relying on complex external sync clients.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office for free on your Windows, Mac, or mobile device.
- 2. Save to WPS Cloud: Open your PDF or document in WPS Office and save it directly to the built-in WPS Cloud.
- 3. Share with ease: Generate a secure sharing link from within the app and send it to your collaborators for real-time access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneDrive say 'Sync pending' for a long time?
This usually happens when OneDrive encounters files it cannot process, such as hidden system files, temporary Office files left open in the background, or excessively large Outlook database files (PST/OST). Removing or closing these files often allows the sync process to resume.
How do I know if my shared OneDrive files are updating online?
You can verify the status of your files by signing into OneDrive.com via your web browser. If the files or recent changes appear there, they have successfully reached the cloud. If they only appear on your local computer, the upload sync is failing.
Will resetting OneDrive delete my local files or shared folders?
No. Running the OneDrive reset command only resets the application's internal sync settings and triggers a full rescan of your folders. You will not lose any local files, PDFs, or data during this troubleshooting process.
