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OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud-based file hosting and synchronization service that can be accessed through various devices like Windows, Mac, or smartphones. OneDrive offers seamless file sharing between devices, making it easier for users to access their files anywhere, anytime. However, many OneDrive users have faced the issue of OneDrive not syncing on their Mac computers. It can be frustrating to not have access to your important files, and that’s where this blog post comes in. In this post, we will be discussing several methods to force OneDrive to sync on your Mac computer.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Force OneDrive to Sync on Mac
Before we dive into the methods, it’s important to understand why OneDrive might not be syncing on your Mac in the first place. There can be several reasons, such as poor internet connectivity, outdated OneDrive app, misconfigured settings, or the OneDrive app not running in the background. Regardless of the reason, not being able to sync your files can hinder your productivity, especially if you need access to a file urgently. Therefore, it’s essential to force OneDrive to sync to get the latest version of your files.
Method 1: Using OneDrive Preferences
The first method to force OneDrive to sync on your Mac is through OneDrive Preferences. Follow the steps below to do so:
1. Click on the OneDrive icon in the menu bar of your Mac.
2. Choose "Preferences" from the dropdown menu.
3. Switch to the "Account" tab.
4. Under "Account", click on "Choose folders".
5. Select the folders that you want to sync and click on "OK".
6. Close the Preferences window and let OneDrive start syncing the newly selected folders.
Method 2: Using Terminal
The second method involves using Terminal to force OneDrive to sync on your Mac. Follow the steps below to do so:
1. Open Terminal on your Mac.
2. Type in the following command and press Enter: "defaults write com.microsoft.OneDrive SyncClient -debug 1".
3. Once you’ve executed the command, restart the OneDrive app on your Mac.
4. The OneDrive app should now start syncing your files.
Method 3: Reinstalling OneDrive
If the above two methods don’t work, you can try reinstalling OneDrive. Follow the steps below to do so:
1. Quit OneDrive on your Mac.
2. Open Finder and navigate to the Applications folder on your Mac.
3. Find the "OneDrive" app and drag it to the Trash.
4. Empty the Trash and restart your Mac.
5. Download the latest version of OneDrive for Mac from the official Microsoft website.
6. Install the app and log in to your account.
7. Select the folders that you want to sync and let OneDrive start syncing your files.
Bonus Tip: Clearing OneDrive Cache
In some cases, clearing OneDrive cache can help resolve syncing issues on your Mac. To clear OneDrive cache, follow the steps below:
1. Quit OneDrive on your Mac.
2. Open Terminal on your Mac.
3. Type in the following command and press Enter: "rm -rf ~/Library/Caches/OneDrive/onedrive.sqlite3".
4. Restart OneDrive on your Mac.
5. The cache will now be cleared, and OneDrive will start syncing your files.
5 FAQs:
Q1. Can I use OneDrive without an internet connection?
A1. You can access your synced files offline, but you need an internet connection to sync new changes to the files.
Q2. Can I exclude files and folders from syncing on OneDrive?
A2. Yes, you can exclude files and folders from syncing on OneDrive by changing the sync settings in OneDrive Preferences.
Q3. What is the OneDrive storage limit for Mac users?
A3. The OneDrive storage limit for Mac users depends on the plan you’re subscribed to. OneDrive for Business plans offer up to 1TB of storage per user.
Q4. Can I sync my OneDrive files with an external hard drive?
A4. Yes, you can sync your OneDrive files with an external hard drive by selecting the external hard drive folder in OneDrive Preferences.
Q5. Does OneDrive automatically sync my files on a Mac?
A5. Yes, by default, OneDrive automatically syncs your files on your Mac, provided you have a stable internet connection.
Final Thoughts:
OneDrive is a powerful tool for Mac users looking for cloud storage and file syncing. However, if OneDrive is not syncing on your Mac, you can use the methods discussed in this blog post to force OneDrive to sync. By following these methods, you can ensure that you have access to the latest version of your files, no matter where you are.