Top 6 Fixes for OneDrive Creating Duplicate Files and Folders on Windows
Dealing with duplicate files and folders in OneDrive can be frustrating, not to mention the unnecessary clutter and confusion it creates. Whether due to syncing issues or software glitches, these duplicates consume valuable storage space and muddle your file system. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to resolve this problem. Here are the top 6 fixes that can help you keep your OneDrive on Windows duplication-free:
1.Check Your Sync Settings – Begin by reviewing your OneDrive sync settings. Make sure you’re not syncing the same folder from different devices, which might lead to duplicates. Adjust your settings accordingly to ensure a harmonious sync process.
2.Update Your OneDrive – Running an outdated version of OneDrive can often cause syncing problems. Ensure your OneDrive app is up-to-date with the latest version as updates typically contain fixes that improve performance and resolve duplication issues.
3.Consolidate Duplicate Folders – Sometimes, duplicate folders are created when there’s a change in the naming convention or during a system update. Manually check your files and merge any duplicates by moving the contents into a single folder, which can then be synced properly.
4.Use the Restore Option – OneDrive’s online version includes a feature to restore previous versions of files and folders. Use this option if you believe the duplicates were created due to a system error; restoring can revert back to a point before the duplicates appeared.
5.Unlink and Relink Your PC – As drastic as this may sound, unlinking your PC from OneDrive and then relinking it is another way to tackle duplication errors. This will reinitiate the sync process afresh and can often clear up any discrepancies causing duplication.
6.Resolve Conflicts Manually – When OneDrive detects conflicting copies of files, it saves both versions. While this is helpful for preserving data, it leads to duplicates. Manually review these conflicts within the OneDrive interface and decide which version should be kept.
By employing these easy-to-follow fixes, you’ll be able to keep your OneDrive organized and free of unnecessary duplicates, ensuring a more efficient and streamlined experience when managing your files on Windows.