OneDrive File Issues

How to Sync and Back Up PC Files with OneDrive

Nimra Malik Sep 29, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to configure automatic backup and synchronization for local PC folders using OneDrive, but cannot locate an obvious sync option in the application settings.

How to Sync and Back Up PC Files with OneDrive

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows PC
Scenario: Backing up important local Windows files and folders to cloud storage.
Observed behavior: The user needs to enable automatic background synchronization for Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, but the exact navigation path within the OneDrive settings interface is unclear.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and that the OneDrive application is running and signed in with the Microsoft account connected to your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Solution 1Recommended

Enable Folder Backup in OneDrive Settings

Use the 'Manage backup' feature within OneDrive's preferences to automatically sync your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders to the cloud.

Although there isn't a single button labeled 'Sync', OneDrive handles background synchronization automatically once you designate which local folders to back up.

Locate the OneDrive Icon

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in your Windows system tray at the bottom right corner of your screen.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the gear icon (Help & Settings) in the top-right corner of the OneDrive panel, or right-click the cloud icon, and select 'Settings' from the menu.

Navigate to the Backup Tab

In the Settings window, click on the 'Backup' or 'Sync and backup' tab located in the left sidebar or top menu.

Manage Folder Backup

Click the 'Manage backup' button. A new window will appear displaying your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders.

Start Synchronization

Toggle the switches or select the checkboxes for the folders you wish to back up, then click 'Save changes' or 'Start backup'. Files in these locations will now automatically sync in the background.

Account Verification: If the Backup option is completely unavailable or greyed out, verify that you are signed into OneDrive with the correct Microsoft 365 account and not a generic local PC account.

Seamlessly Sync and Back Up Documents with WPS Cloud

If you are looking for an integrated way to secure your office documents without juggling third-party backup tools, WPS Office provides built-in cloud storage. WPS Cloud automatically saves, syncs, and backs up your essential documents across all your devices.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office, then sign in with your email or social account to activate your free WPS Cloud space.
2. Open a Document: Create a new document, spreadsheet, or presentation, or open an existing Microsoft Office file on your local PC.
3. Enable Auto-Backup: Click the 'Auto-Save' or 'Cloud' icon located at the top-left of the software window to enable automatic syncing to WPS Cloud.
4. Access Files Anywhere: Navigate to the 'WPS Cloud' tab on the WPS Office homepage to view, manage, and download your backed-up files from any device.

Built-in 1GB free cloud storage for all your office documentsAuto-save and real-time synchronization across PC, Mac, and mobileFully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formatsEasy file recovery and version history management

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't my OneDrive settings window show a Backup or Sync option?

This typically occurs if the OneDrive desktop application requires an update, is paused, or if you are signed in with an incorrect account. Ensure you are signed in with the Microsoft account associated with your Microsoft 365 subscription.

Do I need to manually upload files after setting up the backup?

No. Once you enable the backup for Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, any new file saved into those folders will automatically synchronize with OneDrive in the background as long as you have internet connectivity.

How can I stop syncing a specific folder in Windows?

Open OneDrive Settings, navigate to the Backup tab, and select 'Manage backup'. From there, toggle off or click 'Stop backup' next to the specific folder you want to remove from the automatic synchronization.

Document & File Issues