Unable to Access OneDrive in File Explorer on Windows 11

Question

A second-hand laptop with Windows 11 is being used. When opening File Explorer, only local files are visible, and there is no option to access OneDrive. The Microsoft account is signed in, but the OneDrive folder is not appearing. What steps can be taken to resolve this issue?

Answer 1

Dear @Bill Fults

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Q&A Forum. 

I completely understand how frustrating it can be when OneDrive doesn't appear in File Explorer, even after you've successfully signed in. This is a common issue, and I’m here to help you resolve it quickly and efficiently. 

Below are the most common causes and their corresponding solutions: 

Cause 1: OneDrive is not installed or not running 

Symptoms: 

• The OneDrive (cloud) icon is missing from the taskbar. 
• The OneDrive folder does not appear in File Explorer. 

Solution: 

Open the Start menu, type OneDrive, and try to launch the application. 

You can check the OneDrive icon at the bottom right of the taskbar. 

• The blue cloud icon stands for business account. 
• The gray cloud icon stands for personal account.  

 
If you don't see that icon, please download it at this link: Download the OneDrive App for PC, Mac, Android, or iOS – Microsoft OneDrive 
 

Cause 2: OneDrive is running, but the folder is not visible in File Explorer 

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. 

If you see those icons that means your OneDrive is running.
In addition, check specifically on your computer to see if there are any items that appear like the images I provided below. 

if you are facing situations similar to the images I provided. Maybe you need to access the following link and follow the described steps to reset OneDrive: Reset OneDrive - Microsoft Support 
Please provide me with a screenshot or more specific information about the issue you are facing so that I can support you better. I am always here to listen to you. 

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