OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix Slow Opening of OneDrive Files in Microsoft Office

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is experiencing significant delays (approximately 40 seconds) when opening Microsoft Office files stored in OneDrive, whereas the files open almost instantly when synchronization is disabled.

Product: OneDrive and Microsoft Office
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Opening synchronized Office documents from a connected OneDrive work account.
Observed behavior: Office files take about 40 seconds to load while OneDrive sync is active. When sync is disabled, they open in roughly 2 seconds. Non-Office files, such as PDFs, open normally regardless of sync status.

Before you start

Before proceeding with advanced troubleshooting, ensure that your internet connection is stable and verify that your OneDrive desktop application is fully updated to the latest version.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Office and OneDrive Credentials

Removing cached credentials from the Windows Credential Manager can resolve account authentication conflicts that cause severe delays when opening cloud files.

Because PDF files open normally, the delay is likely tied specifically to Microsoft Office's attempt to authenticate the work account during the file launch.

Disconnect the work account

Open OneDrive settings, navigate to the Account tab, and click 'Unlink this PC' to temporarily stop synchronization.

Open Credential Manager

Click the Start button, type 'Credential Manager' in the Windows search bar, and launch the application.

Remove cached credentials

Select 'Windows Credentials'. Look for any entries related to Microsoft Office, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams. Click on them and select 'Remove'.

Reconnect your account

Open OneDrive again, sign back in with your work account, and allow the files to sync. Test opening a file to see if the speed has improved.

Data Safety: Unlinking your PC or clearing credentials will not delete your files stored in the cloud. It only resets your local login session.

Solution 2

Run an Online Repair for Microsoft Office

Use the built-in repair tool to fix underlying software issues with Office applications struggling to open cloud files.

Solution 3

Test with a New Windows User Profile

A corrupted Windows user profile can cause syncing anomalies and file opening delays. Testing on a fresh profile helps isolate the issue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do PDF files open fast from OneDrive while Office files take so long?

PDFs typically open locally without triggering Microsoft Office's built-in cloud synchronization and authentication checks. Office files, especially those on work accounts, attempt to verify permissions and real-time collaboration features upon opening, causing major delays if there are credential or sync conflicts.

Does unlinking OneDrive delete my files?

No, unlinking your PC only stops the active synchronization process and disconnects the local app from your cloud account. Your files remain safely stored in the cloud, and any locally downloaded files stay on your hard drive.

How do I know if my slow file opening is caused by synchronization?

You can easily test this by pausing OneDrive synchronization or right-clicking the OneDrive icon and closing the app entirely. If your locally cached files open instantly (e.g., in 2 seconds instead of 40), the issue is directly related to the active sync process or account authentication.

Document & File Issues