Sync SharePoint to OneDrive: Complete Set Up Guide

To access SharePoint files directly from a computer, you need to sync SharePoint to OneDrive. This allows you to work offline and keep files updated automatically. This write-up outlines how to sync OneDrive with SharePoint, SharePoint files not syncing to OneDrive, and the difference between SharePoint sync vs add shortcut to OneDrive.

This means, today, you’ll get the complete knowledge about OneDrive syncing here. 

So, let’s start:

• Why Configure SharePoint to OneDrive?
• How to Sync OneDrive with SharePoint?
• SharePoint Sync vs Add Shortcut to OneDrive
• Fix: SharePoint Sync to OneDrive Not Working
• Best Practices
• Author’s Verdict
• People Also Ask

Why Sync SharePoint to OneDrive?

Syncing SharePoint libraries to OneDrive ensures:

• Offline access to SharePoint files on your computer.
• Automatic updates change sync back to the cloud once you reconnect.
• Effortless collaboration with team members using familiar Explorer/Finder views.
• Faster navigation compared to always opening the SharePoint web interface.

So, syncing SharePoint with OneDrive enhances productivity and reduces the dependency on the web browser and the internet. Now, let’s learn how to configure.

How to Sync OneDrive with SharePoint?

Before proceeding with the configuration, first remember that support for the old OneDrive for Business Groove.exe ended in 2021, and it can’t sync Microsoft 365 content anymore. So, always confirm you’re using the new OneDrive sync client (OneDrive.exe) to sync SharePoint to OneDrive. Additionally, for long-term storage, you can backup SharePoint Online to local storage.

Syncing SharePoint files to OneDrive is an easy task; in fact, any non-technical user can complete the configuration without failure. So, follow the steps to complete the task in seconds:

1. Open the SharePoint library to sync in the browser.
2. Click on the Sync button in the command bar.
3. If prompted, allow the browser to open OneDrive (OneDrive.exe, not Groove.exe).
4. Sign in with your Microsoft 365 account.
5. Once confirmed, the library appears in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).

Files are now synced both ways; any edits in File Explorer/Finder update SharePoint, and vice versa.

SharePoint Sync vs Add Shortcut to OneDrive

Many users are confused about the difference between sync and add shortcut to OneDrive, and don’t know when to sync SharePoint to OneDrive or add shortcut. So, based on Microsoft’s latest guidance, here’s the difference:

#Sync OneDrive Sync Client

• Downloads files locally.
• Works offline.
• Good for users who need constant access.

#Add Shortcut to OneDrive

• Creates a web-based link to the SharePoint folder inside your OneDrive.
• Does not download everything locally.
• Great for lightweight access and saving storage space.

So, in comparison of SharePoint sync vs add shortcut to OneDrive, use Sync if you need offline work. Use Add Shortcut if you want quick access without eating up storage.

Fix: SharePoint Sync to OneDrive Not Working

As a SharePoint admin, I received some queries related to the configuration: “I can’t sync SharePoint to OneDrive”, or “my SharePoint files not syncing to OneDrive.” 

If you’re facing the same issue, then try these MVP-approved fixes:

1. Check OneDrive version, ensure you’re running the latest OneDrive sync client.
2. Stop syncing and set it up again.
3. Clear cache by resetting OneDrive from Settings > Reset.
4. Keep file paths under 400 characters.
5. Remove unsupported characters like *: < > ? / \ | from file names.
6. Make sure you have access to the SharePoint library.

If syncing still doesn’t meet your needs, sometimes the better option is to migrate SharePoint list to another site to reduce sync conflicts. For the same, you can opt for an automated SharePoint Migration Tool for accurate results.

Best Practices for Effortless Configuration

Sync SharePoint to OneDrive smoothly by following these points:

• Don’t sync too many libraries; it slows performance.
• Organise with metadata and views instead of multiple synced folders.
• Use Add Shortcut instead of sync if you just need quick access without offline editing.
• Always check sync status in the taskbar to ensure everything is up to date.

Author’s Verdict

Learning how to sync SharePoint to OneDrive is straightforward, but knowing when to use SharePoint sync vs add shortcut to OneDrive makes things smoother. If you’ve been struggling with issues like SharePoint files not syncing to OneDrive, then adding shortcuts usually resolves the problem. 

People Also Ask

Q1. How to sync SharePoint files with OneDrive?
Here are the quick steps to configure SharePoint to OneDrive:

• Go to the SharePoint document library.
• Click Sync.
• When the OneDrive client launches, choose folders.
• Start sync.

Q2. Should I use SharePoint sync vs add shortcut to OneDrive?
Use Sync if you need offline access. Use Add Shortcut to OneDrive if you only want a quick cloud-based link without using local storage.

Q3. Can I sync multiple SharePoint libraries with OneDrive?
Yes, but syncing too many can impact performance. So, limit the number of synced libraries.