OneDrive stuck on Processing changes

OneDrive processing changes icon If OneDrive shows "Processing changes" for a long time, it could be for one of these reasons:

  • you have a OneDrive file open

  • you have added a lot of files to your OneDrive

  • you have added a very large file to your OneDrive

  • you are not signed in

  • you have just signed in, or updated your computer.

    Tip: After updating to macOS Big Sur, some Mac users may see "Processing changes" for a long time. No action is required - please wait for the changes to complete.

Fixes for OneDrive "Processing changes"

Problem

Resolution

You have a OneDrive file open.

Close the file once you finish editing.

You're syncing a lot of files.

No action required. OneDrive will upload all files, but this may take some time if your internet speed is slow.

Run an internet speed test to make sure the problem is not elsewhere.

You're trying to sync a very large file, such as a compressed ZIP archive, a long video or your Outlook PST or OST offline data files.

You can move large files such as email data files out of your OneDrive storage folders, or choose not to sync folders which have large files such as videos in them. Any OneDrive log files titled "aria-debug" can be safely deleted. For more information, read How to remove an Outlook data file from OneDrive.

Tip: You cannot remove Outlook data files/folders from sync when using Files On-Demand. Outlook needs to be able to access the files on your PC.

You are not signed in.

If you changed your password, OneDrive might need you to sign in again.

You have just signed in, or have just updated your computer.

No action required. OneDrive will eventually re-sync all files, but this may take some time if there were a lot of changes or your internet speed is slow.

Run an internet speed test to make sure the problem is not elsewhere.

Unknown/hidden files causing the error.

Select the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar/menu bar to show the list of all files open, being synced or have recently synced.

OneDrive processing changes screen

Temporary or hidden files may also be blocking sync.

Read OneDrive status stuck on "Sync pending" for more information.

Something else

If "Processing changes" remains, read Unlink and re-link OneDrive to help reset your OneDrive.

See also

OneDrive status stuck on "Sync pending"

How to cancel or stop sync in OneDrive

Need more help?

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Contact Support For help with your Microsoft account and subscriptions, visit Account & Billing Help.

For technical support, go to Contact Microsoft Support, enter your problem and select Get Help. If you still need help, select Contact Support to be routed to the best support option.

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Admins Admins should view Help for OneDrive Admins, the OneDrive Tech Community or contact Microsoft 365 for business support.

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