How to Sync an External Local Folder with OneDrive for Business
Question details
The user needs to synchronize an arbitrary local folder located outside the default OneDrive directory with OneDrive for Business.
- Product
- OneDrive for Business
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to back up or sync a local folder stored on a separate drive without moving it permanently to the default OneDrive system folder.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive does not natively allow syncing folders located outside its designated sync directory, except for standard Known Folder locations like Desktop, Documents, and Pictures.
Ensure you have an independent backup of your important files before making directory path changes or creating system-level symbolic links, as incorrect configurations can lead to data loss.
Relocate the Folder or Use Known Folder Backup
The most reliable and officially supported method is to move your data into the native OneDrive directory or use the built-in backup for supported standard folders.
OneDrive is designed to actively monitor and sync files exclusively within its designated folder path. To guarantee real-time sync without errors, relocating the source files is highly recommended.
Open File Explorer, locate the external folder you wish to sync, and drag it directly into your 'OneDrive - [Your Company]' directory.
Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in your system tray or taskbar, click the gear icon, and select 'Settings'.
Navigate to the 'Sync and backup' tab and click 'Manage backup' to toggle synchronization for standard locations like Desktop, Documents, or Pictures.
Create a Windows Symbolic Link (mklink)
If the folder must absolutely remain on a separate drive, you can create a symbolic link (directory junction) to force OneDrive to sync it. This is an advanced workaround.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sync a network drive with OneDrive for Business?
Native OneDrive synchronization does not support mapping directly to network drives. You must move the files to your local OneDrive folder or use the symbolic link workaround, though network drives may face additional authentication and latency issues.
Why does my symbolic link stop syncing automatically?
OneDrive relies on the Windows file system to report changes, which doesn't always trigger reliably through directory junctions or symbolic links. You may need to manually pause and resume syncing, or restart the OneDrive app, to force it to scan for updates.
Does the 'Choose folders' setting allow me to add external folders?
No, the 'Choose folders' option in OneDrive Settings is strictly for selecting which folders already existing inside your cloud storage you want to make available locally on demand. It cannot be used to add new local folders located outside the OneDrive directory.
Are there risks to using mklink with OneDrive?
Yes, since it is not an officially supported configuration, future updates to the OneDrive client could potentially break the sync connection. Additionally, deleting files in the linked folder will delete them in both the local source and the cloud, creating a risk for unintended data loss if not backed up separately.
