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How to Stop OneDrive Automatic Updates on macOS Big Sur
Question details
The user wants to prevent OneDrive from automatically updating to a newer version that is incompatible with their older macOS version.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- macOS Big Sur
- Scenario
- Running an older Mac computer where upgrading past macOS Big Sur is not possible or desired, but OneDrive forces updates that require macOS 12.3 or later.
- Observed behavior
- OneDrive automatically updates itself in the background to a version that requires macOS 12.3 or later, breaking functionality and preventing the user from syncing files on macOS Big Sur.
Before attempting to modify system files, ensure you have backed up any unsynced local OneDrive files and downloaded the installation package for a compatible, older version of OneDrive from a reputable archive.
Block OneDrive Update Servers Using the Hosts File
Since there is no built-in toggle, this community workaround modifies your system's hosts file to block OneDrive from connecting to Microsoft's update servers.
Microsoft does not provide a native way to disable automatic updates for OneDrive on macOS. By modifying the hosts file, you can block the updater from reaching its destination, allowing you to stay on a compatible version. Note that this method may carry long-term security and compatibility risks.
Open Finder, navigate to the Applications folder, and drag the current OneDrive application to the Trash. Empty the Trash to completely remove the incompatible version.
Download a verified older version of OneDrive that is compatible with macOS Big Sur and run the installer. Do not launch the application yet.
Go to Applications, open the Utilities folder, and double-click Terminal to launch the command line interface.
Type the command `sudo nano /etc/hosts` and press Return. Enter your Mac administrator password when prompted.
Use your arrow keys to navigate to the bottom of the file and add `127.0.0.1 oneclient.sfx.ms` (and any other known OneDrive update URLs). Press Control+O and Return to save, then Control+X to exit.
Submit Feedback for Official Support
Report the issue directly to Microsoft to request better legacy support for older macOS versions.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Compatibility on Older Macs
If aggressive automatic updates are breaking your apps on macOS Big Sur, consider switching to WPS Office. It's a highly compatible, lightweight Office suite that runs effortlessly on older Macs and includes built-in cloud synchronization without forcing disruptive system-breaking updates.
- 1. Download for Mac: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the macOS installation package.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Enable Cloud Syncing: Launch WPS Office, sign in with your account, and enable WPS Cloud to automatically save and sync your files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does OneDrive force updates on older macOS versions?
Microsoft continuously updates OneDrive to deploy new features and security protocols. Unfortunately, newer releases often drop support for older operating systems like macOS Big Sur, leading to compatibility lockouts when the app updates itself in the background.
Is there a built-in settings toggle to stop OneDrive updates on Mac?
No. Unlike the Windows environment or other Mac software, Microsoft does not provide a native preferences setting or toggle to disable background updates for the macOS version of OneDrive.
Is it safe to block update servers using the Mac hosts file?
While modifying the hosts file itself is safe and reversible, blocking software updates leaves your application vulnerable to unresolved security risks and bugs. Additionally, Microsoft may change their server addresses, which could bypass your workaround.
Can I use OneDrive without the desktop application on Big Sur?
Yes. If the desktop app is no longer compatible, you can access, edit, upload, and download all of your files directly through the OneDrive web interface using a modern browser like Safari or Chrome.
