Files are not syncing between users on the same shared oneDrive

Question

The files updates are not syncing between users:

• User A can not see user B's files
• User B can not see user A's files

We have tried the unlink and it has not worked.

Answer 1

If files are not syncing between users on the same shared OneDrive, there could be several reasons for this issue. Here are some potential solutions to consider:

1. Check Sharing Permissions: Ensure that both users have the correct permissions to view and edit the shared files. If the permissions are not set correctly, one user may not be able to see the other's files.
2. Sync Status: Verify the sync status of OneDrive for both users. Sometimes, files may not appear due to sync issues. You can check the OneDrive icon in the taskbar to see if it indicates any sync errors.
3. Unlink and Relink OneDrive: Since unlinking OneDrive did not work for you, ensure that both users are following the correct steps to unlink and then relink their OneDrive accounts. This process can sometimes resolve sync issues.
4. Check for Conflicts: If there are conflicts with files (e.g., files with the same name), it may prevent proper syncing. Resolve any conflicts that may exist.
5. Update OneDrive: Ensure that both users are using the latest version of OneDrive. An outdated version can lead to syncing problems.
6. Check for Hidden Files: Sometimes hidden files can cause issues with syncing. Make sure there are no hidden files in the shared folder that may be affecting visibility.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, further investigation may be needed to determine if there are any other underlying problems affecting the sync functionality.

Answer 2

Hi @Sally Stewart, 

Thank you for posting your question to the Microsoft Q&A forum. 

Thank you for reaching out regarding the issue where files are not syncing between users on the same shared OneDrive folder. I understand how important smooth collaboration is, and I’d like to provide some clarity and possible solutions. 

When a folder is shared from an individual’s OneDrive, other users only access a shortcut rather than a true shared space, which can cause sync issues due to ownership remaining with the original user, occasional failures of shortcuts to sync across devices, permission or policy restrictions, and local cache or outdated sync client errors. 

Option 1. Use a SharePoint document library or Microsoft Teams 

For team collaboration, Microsoft recommends storing files in a SharePoint document library or a Teams channel. These provide a central location with real-time sync and version control for all members. 

Option 2. Clear cache and re-sync 

1. Unlink OneDrive  

• Select the OneDrive cloud in your notification area to show the OneDrive pop-up. 
• Select the OneDrive Help and Settings icon then select Settings. 
• Go to the Account tab.  

• Select Unlink this PC, and then select Unlink account . 

2. Restart your device 

• Restarting clears temporary cache and ensures OneDrive services reset properly. 

3. Reconnect OneDrive 

• After restart, open OneDrive from the Start menu. 
• Sign in with your work or school account. 
• Choose the folders you want to sync during setup. 

4. Remove and re-add shortcuts (if applicable) 

• If you previously added a shared folder using “Add shortcut to My files”, it may be causing sync issues. 
• Go to OneDrive Web (onedrive.live.com). 
• Locate the shortcut under My files. 
• Right-click and choose Remove shortcut. 
• Then, go to the original shared folder and click “Add shortcut to My files” again.  

5. Confirm sync status 

• Check the OneDrive icon in the system tray:  
  • A green check means files are synced. 
  • A red X or sync arrows indicate issues. 
  • You can also open the OneDrive app and click Help & Settings > View sync problems. 

Option 3. Use the OneDrive web app as a workaround  

• Go to https://onedrive.live.com or your organization’s SharePoint site.  
• Sign in with your work account.  
• Access and update files directly in the browser to ensure changes are visible to both users.  

I hope this information is helpful. Please follow these steps and let me know if it works for you. If not, we can work together to resolve this.    

Thank you for your patience and your understanding. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to share them in the comments on this post so I can continue to support you. 

I look forward to continuing the conversation. 

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