Resolving OneDrive Sync Issues

Created by Antonio Contreras, Modified on Mon, 10 Apr, 2023 at 4:18 PM by Antonio Contreras


When moving files from a personal network drive to OneDrive, the files are automatically synced to the user’s C: drive. In the Windows Explorer, the files should appear with a green checkmark. However, if a red X appears instead, this indicates that there is a sync issue. The following is an example showing both scenarios:

 

 

  • The green checkmark means the file/folder has successfully moved and is now synched with the folder location on the C: drive.

 

  • The red X means that a file (or a file within a folder) wasn’t successfully moved.

 

There are 2 primary reasons why a file will appear with a red X.

 

  1. The file name contains one of the following characters: “#%*:<>?/|

 

  1. The file type is restricted in OneDrive.

 

To view sync errors:

 

 

  • Right-click on any file with a red X.

 

  • Select OneDrive for Business.

 

  • Select View Sync Problems. Any file with a problem will be listed along with the error and resolution:

 

Graphical user interface, text, application, email

Description automatically generated

 

 

 

If you hover your mouse over the file name, it will display the file path to assist you in locating the file. To find additional information on the issue, click the Help button.

 

To fix the issue (i.e. change the file name), click Close to return to the Windows Explorer to make the changes.

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