Cannot download OneDrive files on Windows PC?

If you cannot download OneDrive files on a Windows PC, then this article will help you fix the problem. This issue can occur due to an outdated OneDrive app, file corruption, OneDrive server issues, etc. In this article, we will help you to fix this issue.

Cannot download OneDrive files on Windows PC?

Before you proceed with further troubleshooting steps, we suggest you check the OneDrive server status. There is a possibility that temporary OneDrive server issues can cause download problems. In such cases, you must wait until Microsoft fixes the server issues. Also, a weak or unstable internet connection can cause this issue. Try restarting your router or modem, switching to a different Wi-Fi network, or using a wired connection if possible.

Restart your PC and router
Login to OneDrive in your web browser
Unlink and relink OneDrive
Reset OneDrive
Uninstall and reinstall OneDrive

Let’s start.

1] Restart your PC and router

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix the temporary issues. We suggest you restart your PC and router and check if it brings any changes.

2] Login to OneDrive in your web browser

If the OneDrive app for Windows is outworking, you can download your files by signing in to OneDrive in your web browser. Open your web browser and visit the OneDrive website. Now, enter your Microsoft account credentials to log in.

3] Unlink and relink OneDrive

Unlink and relink OneDrive and see if it helps resolve the issue. To do so, use the following steps:

Click on the OneDrive icon beside the System Tray.
Click on the gear-shaped icon and select Settings.
Select the Account tab.
Click Unlink this PC.
Click the Unlink account in the confirmation window.

After unlinking your OeDrive account, relink it. To do so, follow the steps written below:

Click on the OneDrive icon on the right side of the Taskbar.
Click Sign in.
Enter your Microsoft account username and click Sign in.
On the next screen, you can change the default OneDrive folder location.
Now, click Next and follow the on-screen instructions.

After relinking your account, OneDrive will start syncing.

4] Reset OneDrive

Sometimes, resetting OneDrive can fix the issues. Follow the steps mentioned below to reset OneDrive:

Open the Run command on your computer by pressing the “Windows+R” key. Enter the following command and click OK.

%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset

You may get the following error message after executing the above command:

Windows cannot find <OneDrive location>. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again.

In such a case, execute the following command in the Run command box to reset the OneDrive.

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

If you again see the “Windows cannot find…” error message, type the following command in the Run command box:

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

During the process, all existing sync connections will be terminated temporarily. You won’t lose files or data by resetting OneDrive on your computer.

5] Uninstall and reinstall OneDrive

Uninstalling and reinstalling OneDrive can resolve the issues. After reinstalling, the OneDrive will download all the files. Also, you will not lose any data that you have in OneDrive by uninstalling it. It will be available when you sign back into your Microsoft account in OneDrive. Follow these steps to reinstall your OneDrive:

Open Windows Settings.
Select the Apps category from the left side and then click Installed apps or Apps & features (whichever option is applicable).
Search for Microsoft OneDrive.
Click on the three dots, and click on Uninstall.

After uninstalling OneDrive, download its latest version from the official website of Microsoft and then install it manually.

That’s it. I hope the above solutions helped to resolve your issue.

Why can’t I download a file from OneDrive?

There can be a few reasons why you cannot download a file from OneDrive. Some of the most common reasons are a weak or unstable internet connection, insufficient storage space on your PC, file corruption, permission issues, outdated OneDrive app, etc.

Why can’t I access files from OneDrive?

There are several reasons why you can’t access files from OneDrive. The most common reasons are OneDrive app issues, unstable internet connection, OneDrive server issues, etc. You can check the OneDrive server status of OneDrive on the website of Microsoft. If nothing works, reset OneDrive or uninstall and reinstall it.