OneDrive Error Codes

How to Fix OneDrive Error 0x8004de44 and Folder Already Synced Issue

Maira Mehtab Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users are unable to sync SharePoint libraries because OneDrive incorrectly reports the folder is already synced. Attempts to sign in result in a blank white window or error code 0x8004de44.

How to Fix OneDrive Error 0x8004de44 and Folder Already Synced Issue

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to sync a SharePoint library or signing into a OneDrive work or school account.
Observed behavior: The application fails to sync, shows a 'folder already synced' message despite no sync connection, gets stuck on a blank sign-in window, and ultimately displays error 0x8004de44.

Before you start

Before proceeding with reinstallation or resetting, make sure any locally modified files that haven't synced are manually backed up to a different folder on your computer.

Solution 1Recommended

Perform a Clean Reinstall and Remove Local Folders

Completely uninstalling OneDrive and deleting leftover local sync folders helps clear conflicting records that cause the 'folder already synced' error and authentication failures.

Often, simply resetting OneDrive is not enough because hidden local directories or registry flags still think a SharePoint connection exists. A full clean installation ensures all outdated connection states are wiped.

Uninstall OneDrive from Windows Settings

Open Windows Settings, navigate to 'Apps', then select 'Apps & features'. Scroll down to find 'Microsoft OneDrive', click on it, and select 'Uninstall'.

Delete leftover local sync folders

Open File Explorer and navigate to your user profile directory (usually C:\Users\[YourUsername]). Delete the top-level 'OneDrive' folder as well as any specific SharePoint organizational folders left behind.

Download and reinstall the latest version

Visit the official Microsoft download website to get the latest OneDrive package installer. Double-click the downloaded setup file to reinstall the application.

Sign in and reconfigure sync

Launch the newly installed OneDrive app. Enter your work or school account credentials and follow the prompts to map your SharePoint libraries again.

Perform a Clean Reinstall and Remove Local Folders

Handling the blank sign-in window: If the sign-in window turns white after entering your credentials, allow it to sit for a few minutes. It may be attempting to connect to your organization's server before returning error 0x8004de44.

Solution 2

Test Authentication with a Personal Microsoft Account

Isolating the issue by signing in with a personal account helps determine whether the failure is a local app problem or an issue with your organization's authentication network.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say my folder is already synced when it isn't listed in settings?

This occurs when leftover local folder paths or cache entries from a previous sync session remain on your hard drive. OneDrive detects the existing local folder and assumes the sync is active. Deleting the old local folder resolves this conflict.

What does OneDrive error code 0x8004de44 mean?

Error 0x8004de44 is an authentication error. It indicates that the OneDrive client is having trouble communicating with Microsoft's servers to verify your account credentials, often due to network issues, corrupted app data, or strict organizational security policies.

Will uninstalling OneDrive from Windows Settings delete my cloud files?

No. Uninstalling the OneDrive desktop app only removes the synchronization software from your computer. All your files remain securely stored online in the cloud and will be accessible once you reinstall and sign back in.

How do I fix the blank white window when trying to sign in to my work account?

A blank sign-in window usually means the app is hanging during the authentication handshake. You can fix this by doing a clean reinstallation, ensuring your Windows operating system is fully updated, and temporarily disabling restrictive third-party firewalls or VPNs.

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