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How to Fix OneNote Desktop Notebooks Not Syncing Between Computers
Question details
The user needs to fix an issue where a shared OneNote desktop notebook opens on a second computer but fails to synchronize.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Syncing a shared notebook containing approximately 150 email templates between two desktop computers because the online version lacks alphabetical sorting.
- Observed behavior
- The notebook opens successfully on the second desktop computer but does not synchronize updates or changes made to the templates.
Ensure both desktop computers are connected to a stable internet connection and that you are signed in with the same Microsoft account that has editing permissions for the shared notebook.
Check Notebook Sync Status and Force Manual Sync
Manually triggering the synchronization process helps identify specific error codes or connectivity issues blocking the sync.
Often, a notebook will appear to open but silently fail to sync due to authentication errors or temporary server disconnections. Checking the sync status provides detailed error messages essential for troubleshooting.
In the OneNote desktop application, right-click the name of the affected notebook in the left-hand navigation pane and select 'Notebook Sync Status' from the context menu.
In the Shared Notebook Synchronization dialog box, click the 'Sync Now' button next to the problematic notebook.
If the sync fails, look for a specific error code or message displayed beneath the notebook name. Take a screenshot of this error to determine the exact cause of the synchronization failure.
Verify OneDrive Sharing Settings
Ensure the notebook is properly shared from OneDrive rather than transferred as a local file, which breaks synchronization.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Management
If you are tired of synchronization issues with heavy desktop apps, WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative. With built-in WPS Cloud, your documents stay perfectly synchronized across all devices without the hassle.
- 1. Download and Install: Get the free WPS Office installer from the official website and follow the on-screen instructions.
- 2. Sign in to WPS Cloud: Log in with your account to activate free cloud storage for your documents and templates.
- 3. Sync Across Devices: Save your files to the WPS Cloud folder to access and sync them instantly on your other desktop computers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my OneNote notebook open but not sync?
This commonly occurs if the notebook file was manually copied to the second computer instead of being shared and synced through OneDrive. It can also happen due to expired account credentials or restricted network connections.
Can I sort pages alphabetically in OneNote Online?
No, OneNote Online currently has limited functionality compared to the desktop app and does not support automatic alphabetical sorting of pages or templates.
How do I find the specific sync error code in OneNote?
Right-click the notebook name in the sidebar and choose 'Notebook Sync Status' (or go to File > Info > View Sync Status). A dialog will display the exact error code preventing synchronization.
