Troubleshoot Microsoft OneDrive Sync Errors

Issues

  • OneDrive is notifying me that some files or folders are not able to sync.
  • I get an error message when trying to sync a file or folder to OneDrive.
  • Some of my files sync to OneDrive but a few will not.
  • Why does a specific file or folder fail to upload to OneDrive?
  • OneDrive shows a sync error on one folder but the rest are fine.
  • How do I fix a OneDrive file that keeps showing a sync problem?

Environment

This article applies to anyone using the Microsoft OneDrive sync client on macOS or Windows with a Bowdoin account. The sync client synchronizes files and folders stored within the OneDrive folder. In many cases a feature called Folder Backup, also known as Known Folder Move (KFM), is enabled, which automatically syncs the Desktop and Documents folders on macOS, and the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders on Windows, to OneDrive. When sync is configured, some individual files or folders may not sync correctly.

Resolution

A sync problem is usually limited to certain files or folders rather than all of them. Check the items below for anything that might be preventing a specific file or folder from syncing.

Restricted Characters

Certain characters cannot appear in file or folder names. If a name contains one of these characters, the item will not sync and an error message appears. The following characters are not allowed.

Invalid File or Folder Names

Some file and folder names are also restricted and will not sync. The following names are not allowed.

  • _vti_ cannot appear anywhere in the file or folder name.
  • The word forms is not allowed at the top level of a SharePoint library.
  • A folder in SharePoint cannot start with ~.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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