Word document not saving properly.

Question

Hello,

I'm using a new PC, and I'm syncing several directories and files from OneDrive. I have Office 365 installed.

When I try to save an existing Word file, which is located in my OneDrive folder, it is saved properly in the first attempt. But when I save the same file a second time (after further editing), the saving windows is opened and I need to replace the existing file to save it (the saving process is successful).

This doesn't seem to occur with every Word file in this directory.

The syncing arrows are not present in this problematic Word file.

Any ideas on how to solve this issue, and be able to save the document without needing to replace it?

Thanks.

Best,

Answer 1

It is possible that OneDrive does not handle password-protected files properly; I haven't tested that.

Just to rule out other causes, have you updated both Windows 10 and Office to the most recent versions?

Answer 2

Hi,

Thank you for your reply.

There were no files that start with ~$ in this directory.

I copied the problematic files to the desktop, and indeed no saving issues.

I save these files with a different name, but in the same directory (sub directory in OneDrive main directory), and the problem reoccurred.

These files are password protected. Could this be the problem?. Other, non protected files are properly saved with no issues.

My issue is that I'll need to move the files to another local directory, and remember to upload them once I finish working on them. Quite inconvenient.

Best,

Answer 3

Close all Office files and exit Office programs. In File Explorer, ensure that you display hidden files and folders. Go to the local OneDrive folder and look for left-over files whose names start with ~$. These are so-called lock files which are normally deleted when you close a file. Delete lock files if you find any. Can you now edit your files normally?

If the above fails, you may have to edit files locally without synchronizing, and then copy the files to OneDrive after having signed in at https://onedrive.live.com.

Answer 4

Hi,

Thank you for your response.

1. The application was Word. Not sure if it was version 2013 or 2016.
2. The same phenomenon occurs: the first save attempt works, while further savings prompt the opening of the save windows, and after clicking the save button the file is replaces (another windows...).
3. No troubleshooting steps performed.

Thanks again.

Best,

Answer 5

Hello,

Let us try isolating the issue more to better assist you. Please answer these questions:

1. What was the application used to create the affected Word file?
2. Do use Ctrl + S to save the changes done on the file?
3. Any troubleshooting steps you have done so far?

We look forward to your update.