OneDrive File Issues

How to Set Up and Fix OneDrive Folder Sync on Windows 10 & 11

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to set up OneDrive folder synchronization between two Windows computers and ensure specific directories are available locally.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows 10, Windows 11
Scenario: Syncing specific directories across two Windows devices and managing selective folder downloads.
Observed behavior: Certain folders are missing locally because they are excluded from sync settings, or a synchronization error is occurring as indicated by a red X.

Before you start

Verify that you are logged into the same Microsoft account on both computers and that the OneDrive application is actively running in your system tray.

Solution 1Recommended

Configure Selective Folder Sync in OneDrive

Use the 'Choose folders' feature to specify exactly which directories are downloaded and synced to your local device.

Locate the OneDrive Folder

Open File Explorer on both computers and navigate to your local OneDrive folder.

Organize Your Files

Create the desired folder structure inside the OneDrive directory and place only the files you want to sync inside it.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar notification area, click the gear icon (or Help & Settings), and select Settings.

Select Folders to Sync

Navigate to the Account tab and click on 'Choose folders'. Ensure the required folders are checked so they become visible and accessible on your local computer.

Cloud vs Local Storage: A folder that is visible in your cloud storage online but missing locally is usually just excluded from your local synchronization settings.

Solution 2

Troubleshoot Synchronization Errors

Investigate red X errors and reset the OneDrive client if synchronization completely fails.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my OneDrive folder show a red X icon?

A red X indicates a file or folder synchronization error. You can click the OneDrive icon in your taskbar notification area to view the exact error details and follow the prompts to resolve the conflict.

How do I sync only specific folders in OneDrive?

To sync specific folders, click the OneDrive icon, go to Settings, select the Account tab, and click 'Choose folders'. From there, check only the boxes for the folders you want downloaded locally.

What should I do if my local OneDrive files are missing?

First, verify that the folders are not excluded in your 'Choose folders' settings. If they are selected but still missing, check for sync errors or log into OneDrive via your web browser to ensure the files exist in the cloud.

Document & File Issues