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How to Fix OneDrive Sync When a Large File Exceeds Storage
Question details
The user is attempting to upload a file that exceeds the remaining available storage space on OneDrive, causing the synchronization process to halt.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Uploading a large file to a OneDrive account that has insufficient storage space remaining to accommodate it.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive synchronization stops entirely and fails to upload the large file or any subsequent files because the account has reached its storage quota.
Check your current available OneDrive storage space by clicking the cloud icon in your taskbar and reviewing the storage usage indicator at the bottom of the menu.
Pause Syncing and Relocate the Large File
Temporarily pause your OneDrive synchronization to safely move the oversized file to a local drive, freeing up the sync queue for your remaining files.
When a file is too large for your remaining OneDrive storage, the sync engine gets stuck trying to process it. Removing the file from the designated OneDrive folder is necessary to clear the blockage and restore normal synchronization.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon located on your Windows taskbar. Select the Settings (gear) icon, and choose 'Pause syncing' from the dropdown menu.
Open File Explorer and go to your default OneDrive folder where the large file is currently stored.
Cut the oversized file and paste it into a local directory that is outside of the OneDrive folder, such as 'C:\Users\YourUserName\Documents' or an external hard drive.
Return to the OneDrive taskbar icon, click Settings, and select 'Resume syncing'. Ensure your remaining files comfortably fit within the available cloud storage quota.
Switch to WPS Office for a Lightweight Document Experience
If you are struggling with Microsoft ecosystem storage limits, consider using WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, free, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that offers a familiar interface, seamless migration, and flexible cloud storage options.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS Office website to download the free, lightweight installer.
- 2. Open Your Microsoft Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open any existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents without conversion.
- 3. Manage Cloud Storage: Link your preferred cloud storage accounts in WPS Office to save and sync documents without relying solely on a single provider's quota.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my remaining OneDrive storage space?
Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, click the gear icon to open Settings, and navigate to the Account tab. Your total storage capacity and current usage will be displayed there.
What happens to the large file if I leave it in the OneDrive folder?
If left in the folder without sufficient cloud storage, the file will display a red 'X' sync error icon indicating it cannot be uploaded. It will continually attempt to sync, which may block other smaller files from uploading.
Can I compress a large file to make it fit in OneDrive?
Yes, you can right-click the file in File Explorer, select 'Send to', and choose 'Compressed (zipped) folder'. If the resulting ZIP file is smaller than your remaining storage space, it will sync successfully.
Will deleting files from OneDrive free up space for the large file?
Yes. Deleting unneeded files from your OneDrive folder and subsequently clearing the OneDrive Recycle Bin online will free up storage space, which may allow the large file to sync if enough space is recovered.
