onedrive personal folder cannot sync

kent saw 0 Reputation points
2026-01-17T08:19:50.0433333+00:00

my laptop suddenly ask me backup, after i click backup than i want to change setting stop sync is bcoz i dunwan sync my old data to my new laptop. after that i try to stop sync, but now my onedrive personal folder cannot sync.. but this personal folder i use b4 all file is sync. i already try step by step to setting ,go account go choose folder sync also cannot work.. what shd i do ?

Microsoft 365 and Office | OneDrive | For home | Windows
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  1. Alex_T 6,100 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-01-18T19:05:31.0966667+00:00

    Hello kent saw,

    Thank you for reaching out in Microsoft Q&A forum.

    I understand how confusing it is when OneDrive suddenly stops syncing your Personal folder after you changed the backup settings.

    Based on what you described, this usually happens when PC Folder Backup was turned ON, then turned OFF midway, causing OneDrive to keep the folder in a “partially disconnected” state.

    You can try these steps to fix it:

    1. Check if the folder is still being protected by PC Folder Backup
      • Right‑click the OneDrive cloud icon> Select Settings > Go to Sync and backup > Click Manage backup
      • If Documents / Desktop / Pictures shows Error > click Stop backup
      • Wait for it to apply, then restart your laptop
    2. Reconnect the folder manually
      • Right‑click the OneDrive icon > Choose Settings > Go to Account > Choose folders
      • Ensure your Personal folder is checked
      • If it shows an error > click Unlink this PC, then sign in again
    3. Check for leftover junction links. Sometimes Windows leaves old “redirect” links behind.
      • Open File Explorer > Right‑click your Documents folder > Properties > Location
      • If the path is not your real Documents folder, click Restore Default > Apply and restart

    You can also visit this link to have more references: Fix OneDrive sync problems

    Let me know how it goes.


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  2. Q&A Assist
    2026-01-17T08:19:58.17+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    It sounds like you're experiencing issues with syncing your OneDrive personal folder after attempting to stop the sync. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the syncing issue:

    1. Stop and Restart Syncing: If you haven't already, try stopping the sync for the OneDrive folder and then restarting it. You can do this by going to your OneDrive settings, selecting the account tab, and stopping the sync for the folder. After that, you can start syncing again.
    2. Check for Restrictions and Limitations: Ensure that the files you are trying to sync do not fall into any restrictions or limitations regarding the number of items, size, or file names. You can refer to the relevant documentation to understand these limits.
    3. Update OneDrive: Make sure that your OneDrive application is updated to the latest version. Sometimes, syncing issues can occur due to outdated software.
    4. Check Folder Availability: Ensure that the library you are trying to sync is configured to be available offline. If it's not, you may need to adjust the settings to allow it.
    5. Remove Hidden or Temporary Files: Sometimes, hidden or temporary files can cause syncing issues. Check your OneDrive folder for any such files and remove them if necessary.
    6. Clear the Office Document Cache: If you have been using Office applications, clearing the document cache might help resolve any conflicts that are causing the sync issue.

    If these steps do not resolve the issue, you may want to consult the OneDrive support documentation for further troubleshooting steps.


    References:

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