How to Sync OneDrive on Mac

Things to Know

• OneDrive for Mac lets you upload files and folders to the cloud for storage.
• You can then log in to your OneDrive on other devices to access those same files.
• It’s an easy way to backup and make your files more accessible.

OneDrive may be a Microsoft app, but it’s fully functional on Apple devices, like Macs. You can download and setup the OneDrive for Mac app to sync and backup whichever files and folders you like, making them easier to access on other devices and platforms.

How to Set Up and Sync OneDrive on Mac

OneDrive for Mac is quick and easy to install on any platform, including Mac. Once it has been installed and configured, it should start syncing automatically, as long as you have the app open.

Here’s how to sync OneDrive to Mac in a few easy steps.

Step 1. If you don’t have it already, download OneDrive for Mac from the official download page, or from the Apple App Store.

Step 2. Once the OneDrive app has downloaded, click to open and install it. Follow the on-screen prompts during this process.

Step 3. When the app is installed, tap the “Command,” “Shift,” and “A” buttons to view a full list of your installed apps. Then type “OneDrive” to find OneDrive in the list, and click to open it.

Step 4. A pop-up window should then open, inviting you to sign in. Enter your credentials to log in to your OneDrive account and choose OneDrive folder location. Note, also, that a cloud icon will appear in the top right corner of your display, which shows you that OneDrive is running. You can click the cloud icon at any time to access OneDrive’s menu and settings.

Step 5. Click “Next” several times and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the login process. Then, a OneDrive folder will appear. You can then start to sync OneDrive to Mac by copying over the folders you want to sync into the new OneDrive folder, which should appear in your Finder. From that point on, all the folders you add to OneDrive will be automatically synced, when the app is running.

How to Force OneDrive to Sync on Mac

Usually, you shouldn’t have to force sync OneDrive on Mac, as it should sync files automatically when you create and update them. However, sometimes, because of bugs or other issues, the sync process might get interrupted. To fix this, you can try the following:

Step 1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the top right corner.

Step 2. Click the “Settings” (gear) icon.

Step 3. Click on “Quit OneDrive” and then wait a few seconds.

Step 4. Restart OneDrive by finding the app in Spotlight or your Applications folder. When it relaunches, it should start syncing again.

Alternatively, try the following:

Step 1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon.

Step 2. Click on “Settings.”

Step 3. Select “Pause syncing,” then wait a few moments.

Step 4. Select “Resume syncing” to see if the sync process restarts.