OneDrive File Issues

How to Resolve Microsoft Project File Sync Conflicts in OneDrive

Amos Gikunda Oct 16, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users need to resolve Microsoft Project file synchronization conflicts and remove duplicate files appearing in OneDrive or SharePoint.

How to Resolve Microsoft Project File Sync Conflicts in OneDrive or SharePoint

Product: Microsoft Project and OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Syncing Microsoft Project files to cloud storage, which results in unexpected duplicate files or .BAK backups.
Observed behavior: OneDrive or SharePoint creates duplicate project files ending in .sync-conflict, (1).mpp, or .BAK. Newer software versions lack a dedicated sync conflict resolution setting to manage this automatically.

Before you start

Before modifying or deleting any project files, pause your OneDrive synchronization and ensure you have the latest versions of both Microsoft Project and the OneDrive desktop app installed.

Solution 1Recommended

Identify and Manually Resolve Conflicting Files

Safely locate, compare, and remove duplicate or conflicting project files in your synced folder without losing your latest work.

Since newer versions of Microsoft Project and OneDrive may lack a built-in conflict resolution dialog, you must manually inspect the synced folders. Duplicate files are often created to prevent data loss when simultaneous changes are detected.

Open File Explorer

Navigate to the specific OneDrive or SharePoint folder on your computer where your Microsoft Project (.mpp) files are stored.

Identify Duplicate and Backup Files

Look for any files with conflicting names or extensions. These typically include "filename.sync-conflict", "filename (1).mpp", or files ending with the ".BAK" extension.

Compare File Versions

Do not delete anything immediately. Open the original file and the duplicate files in Microsoft Project to compare their contents and determine which one contains your most recent updates.

Rename or Move Confirmed Duplicates

Once you have identified the correct current version, rename the conflicting files or move them out of the OneDrive folder to a local backup directory.

Restart Synchronization

Restart the Microsoft Project application. Then, click the OneDrive icon in your taskbar, resume syncing (if paused), and allow it to process the updated folder structure.

Identify and Manually Resolve Conflicting Files

Backup Precaution: Always keep a local backup of your .BAK and .mpp files in a separate, non-synced folder before renaming or removing anything from your active OneDrive directory.

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While Microsoft Project sync conflicts can disrupt your workflow, you can easily manage project timelines, Gantt charts, and task lists using WPS Spreadsheet's built-in templates. WPS Office is a free, lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that offers seamless compatibility with standard formats and reliable built-in cloud synchronization.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your device.
2. Access Project Templates: Open WPS Office, go to the Homepage, and click on 'Templates'.
3. Search for Trackers: Type 'Project Management' or 'Gantt' in the search bar to find ready-to-use timeline templates.
4. Save and Sync: Save your new project tracker directly to WPS Cloud to avoid complex third-party syncing conflicts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive create files with computer names attached?

When OneDrive detects offline changes that conflict with the cloud version of a file, it appends the computer name to the filename. This is designed to save both copies and prevent accidental data loss.

Can I disable the creation of .BAK files in Microsoft Project?

Yes. You can turn off backup file creation by opening Microsoft Project, navigating to File > Options > Save, and modifying your backup preferences.

How do I force OneDrive to sync after resolving file conflicts?

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray, click the gear icon (Settings), select 'Pause syncing', and then immediately click 'Resume syncing'. This forces OneDrive to rescan your folders for changes.

Document & File Issues