OneDrive problems - how Microsoft's Troubleshooter program works

Many users of the Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1 operating systems are confronted with the annoyance that the popular OneDive synchronization program does not work. A variety of malfunctions can occur: For example, OneDrive cannot establish an Internet connection, OneDrive synchronization fails for individual files or the operating system does not display OneDrive in Explorer. However, all of these problems can be solved.

Identify and fix OneDrive problems

First you should check in a few steps whether your settings are correct:

1. Make sure that your computer is connected to the Internet at all. If you are using a synchronized network, check whether you have switched off OneDrive synchronization in the synchronized network. Press the "Windows key" plus "C" and examine the settings under "Change PC settings - OneDrive - Clocked connections".
2. Check the "Task Manager" to see if OneDrive Synch Engine Host is running.
3. Check whether you have installed all updates for Windows 8.1. To do this, press the "Windows key" and "C" and go to "Change PC settings - Update/Restore - Windows Update".
4. Open OneDrive and check for error messages. Also look in the OneDrive folder and look for icons that indicate errors. Right-click on them and go to "Show problems".

Still having problems? Download OneDrive Troubleshooter!

OneDrive is still not synchronizing? Then you should use the Troubleshooter, the automated troubleshooting program. You can download the program download from Microsoft. After the download is complete, run it and click on "Next" (the Troubleshooter is unfortunately only available on Microsoft's US site).

The program now identifies errors. At the same time, the software automatically carries out troubleshooting. This can sometimes take a long time. This is the case, for example, when OneDrive carries out clean-up work or catches up on synchronizations that were previously carried out incorrectly.

You will then receive an overview of the problems identified and information on whether they have been resolved.

Here is a short YouTube tutorial:

Troubleshooter as an automated OneDrive troubleshooter

OneDrive is not synchronizing? As a first step, rule out errors that you can easily rectify. A missing internet connection, updates that have not been downloaded or incorrect network settings may be the cause. If you get any further, you should use the Troubleshooter. The advantage: it fixes many problems automatically, so you don't have to worry about the details.

Article image above: Microsoft Corporation