Uninstall & Reinstall Issues

Fix OneDrive App Cannot Add Work or School Account

Elise Williams Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to add a work or school account to the Microsoft Store OneDrive app after reinstallation.

Fix OneDrive App Cannot Add a Work or School Account

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Setting up a OneDrive for Business or work/school account in the Microsoft Store app.
Observed behavior: The app remains stuck on 'We’re adding your account...', reports it is no longer supported, and conflicts with the desktop installer.

Before you start

Verify whether you are using the Microsoft Store version of OneDrive or the standalone Desktop Sync Client, as the Microsoft Store version may be deprecated for business accounts.

Solution 1Recommended

Switch to the OneDrive Desktop Sync Client

The Microsoft Store app is often incompatible with work and school accounts. Installing the official desktop client resolves this conflict.

Microsoft is transitioning away from the Microsoft Store version of OneDrive for business environments. You need to completely remove the Store app before installing the standard desktop client to bypass the 'newer version is already installed' error.

Uninstall the Store App

Open Windows Settings, go to Apps > Installed apps, locate the OneDrive app downloaded from the Microsoft Store, and click Uninstall.

Restart Windows

Reboot your computer to clear any lingering registry keys or temporary files from the uninstalled application.

Download the Desktop Client

Open Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome, navigate to the official Microsoft OneDrive download page, and download the latest desktop sync client.

Install and Sign In

Run the downloaded installer. Once finished, open OneDrive from the Start menu and enter your work or school account credentials to sign in.

Switch to the OneDrive Desktop Sync Client

Installation Success: The desktop client supports both personal and work accounts simultaneously, resolving the compatibility issue.

Solution 2

Access OneDrive on the Web

If local installation issues persist, accessing your files via a web browser provides an immediate workaround.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the OneDrive installer say a newer version is already installed?

This happens when the Microsoft Store version of OneDrive is present on your system. Windows detects its app package as a newer build, preventing the standard desktop client from installing. Uninstalling the Store app fixes this conflict.

Can I use a personal and work account on the same OneDrive app?

Yes, the official Desktop Sync Client allows you to link one personal account and multiple work or school accounts simultaneously without needing separate applications.

Is the Microsoft Store OneDrive app discontinued?

Microsoft has largely shifted focus to the unified Desktop Sync Client built into Windows, depreciating specific features of the standalone Store app, particularly for business and school users.

Installation & Activation