Windows

How to Reset OneDrive Sync on Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 2, 2021 Updated Apr 14, 2026 2 min read
How to Reset OneDrive Sync on Windows 11

If your OneDrive files are not updating, you may need to reset your connection. This guide shows you how to fix syncing issues on Windows 11.

Why reset OneDrive?

OneDrive is built into Windows 11 to keep your files in the cloud. Sometimes, the connection gets stuck. Resetting forces the app to restart its connection and check for errors.

What happens when you reset?

You will not lose any files or data. However, OneDrive will need to scan and resync everything. If you have many files, this may take a while. Wait for the process to finish before you move or delete files.

Method 1: Reset using the Run command

You do not need admin privileges for this step. Follow these instructions to refresh your connection:

  1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run box.
Windows 11 desktop interface showing how to reset OneDrive sync settings

  1. Copy and paste the following command into the box and click OK:
💻Code
%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset

Alternatively, you can open the Command Prompt, paste the same command, and press ENTER.

Command prompt window executing the reset command for OneDrive on Windows 11

The OneDrive icon on your taskbar will disappear for a few minutes. When it reappears, it will start syncing your files again.

Method 2: Reset the OneDrive Store app

If you use the version from the Microsoft Store, you can reset it through your settings. This does not require admin privileges.

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Search for OneDrive.
  3. Right-click the app and select App settings.
Right-click menu on the OneDrive app showing the App settings option

  1. In the window that opens, scroll down and click the Reset button.
OneDrive app settings menu displaying the reset button for Windows 11

Summary

If OneDrive stops syncing, you can fix it by resetting the app. This clears old connections and starts a fresh sync. You will not lose your files, but you must be patient while the app re-uploads or downloads your data to ensure everything is up to date. Keep your app updated to avoid future issues.

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Tags: #Windows 11
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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5 responses to “How to Reset OneDrive Sync on Windows 11”

  1. I copied this line in %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset to reset my onedrive. Nothing happened. It still says it is trying to sync and never disappeared like the instructions said it would. It just continues (after days) of letting it run to say it is trying to sync but does not make any progress. I did get an email on my phone that says onedrive was finished backing up files but that is not what I see when I open onedrive. It still says it is trying to sync.

  2. I had to dig a bit to get the correct path for my puter. The principle is the same though. The command I used is:

    C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset

    I’m on Win11.

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