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OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Upload Failed for Excel Macro-Enabled Files

Aamir Naveed AkramAamir Naveed Akram Oct 14, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing an 'Upload failed' error when syncing an Excel macro-enabled workbook to OneDrive, despite it working correctly on other devices.

How to Fix OneDrive Upload Failed for Excel Macro-Enabled Files
Product
Microsoft Excel / OneDrive
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Syncing a macro-enabled Excel workbook to OneDrive and encountering version conflicts.
Observed behavior
The file fails to upload on a specific device, prompting a message to refresh because a newer version exists.
Before you start

Ensure you have your Microsoft 365 credentials handy and temporarily save a local copy of your macro-enabled workbook under a new name to prevent any data loss.

Solution 1Recommended

Test File Synchronization via SharePoint Online

Pause OneDrive syncing and try opening the file directly from SharePoint to isolate whether the issue lies with the local Excel app or the OneDrive client.

By bypassing the local OneDrive synchronization folder, you can determine if the local cache is causing the version conflict.

1
Pause OneDrive Sync

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar, click the Help & Settings gear icon, and select 'Pause syncing'.

2
Access SharePoint Online

Open your web browser, navigate to your SharePoint Online document library, and locate the affected Excel macro-enabled file.

3
Open in Desktop Application

Select the file, click on the 'Open' dropdown menu at the top, and choose 'Open in Desktop App'.

4
Test the Upload

Make a minor edit in the Excel desktop application and click 'Save' to see if the upload error still triggers.

Test File Synchronization via SharePoint Online
Sync Resumption: Remember to resume OneDrive syncing from the taskbar menu once you have finished testing the direct SharePoint connection.
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  1. 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office for free from the official website.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say a newer version exists when uploading my Excel file?

This error occurs when there is a version conflict between the local cache on your device and the file stored on Microsoft servers. It typically happens if synchronization was interrupted or if another user modified the file while your device was offline.

Can I still access my Excel macro-enabled file if the OneDrive upload fails?

Yes. Your local version is still available on your device. It is highly recommended to immediately use 'Save As' to store a copy of the file in a different local folder to ensure no data is lost while troubleshooting.

Does resetting the OneDrive cache delete my files?

No, resetting or clearing the OneDrive cache only refreshes the synchronization settings and background processes. It does not delete any of your personal files, folders, or cloud data.

How can I bypass OneDrive sync errors for a specific Excel workbook?

You can bypass sync issues by logging into SharePoint Online via your web browser, downloading a fresh copy of the workbook to your local drive, manually copying your recent changes over, and then uploading the newly saved version.