OneDrive app not working on MacBook

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2026-09-18T21:11:50.0966667+00:00

This entire week I've had an issue with using OneDrive—the issue being that I can't open the app on my Macbook! For the past six or seven years, I've exclusively used MS Word because of it's cloud syncing with OneDrive. Support says they’re experiencing an issue with activating MS/Office on MacOS.

I'm a writer, so using a word processor that I'm easily able to access across all of my devices is an absolute must. All week I've had to rely on writing on my iPad, which is fine, but because OneDrive isn't working, my documents aren't being synced which means I don't have access to the updated files on MacBook.

I LOVE using OneDrive and I'm very frustrated that this has happened with no word on when it will be fixed. I tried contacting support but I guess MS has completely done away with humans. The AI chat was no help; I asked to speak with a representative several times to no avail. So then I wanted to call but I can't even find a number, and even if I did, something tells me I'd still be forced to interact with AI.

Does anyone have any information on when this issue will be resolved? I deleted the app and redownloaded it, and I even updated my MacBook to see if it would help. I’m currently in the middle of drafting two books for publication next year and I'm now having to figure out a different avenue going forward, or at least until this issue is resolved.

Microsoft 365 and Office | OneDrive | For home | MacOS
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  1. AI answer

    2026-09-18T21:12:11.7333333+00:00

    There is no resolution timeline in the provided information for a general Mac activation or OneDrive outage.

    For a Mac where OneDrive will not open, the supported steps are:

    1. Install the latest Mac version of OneDrive.
      • Download the latest version of the app or use the Mac App Store.
      • Then use Spotlight to search for OneDrive and open it.
      • When OneDrive Setup starts, sign in again.
    2. If OneDrive shows a startup error on macOS 12.1 or later:
      • Close and re-open OneDrive, then restart the Mac.
      • If the error says a system component failed or blocked startup, restart the Mac and make sure macOS is updated to the latest version.
      • If the error says the OneDrive folder is locked or not writable, unlock that folder and make sure it is fully writable, then restart OneDrive.
      • If the error says the file system is unsupported, OneDrive requires APFS on macOS 12.1 or later.
    3. If sync is stuck after OneDrive opens:
      • Open OneDrive settings from the cloud icon.
      • Select Pause syncing.
      • Move one file out of a OneDrive sync folder to a non-OneDrive folder.
      • Select Resume syncing...
      • After sync completes, move the file back.
    4. If the app still does not work, reset OneDrive.
      • Resetting OneDrive can resolve sync issues and triggers a full sync afterward.
      • This disconnects existing sync connections, including personal and work or school OneDrive accounts.
      • It does not delete files or data on the computer.
    5. Check whether files are accessible online.
      • Open the OneDrive menu bar icon and select View online.
      • If sign-in online also fails, check the Microsoft Office Online Services status.

    For direct help from Microsoft for a personal account, use Contact Microsoft Support. For work or school accounts, contact the organization’s IT helpdesk or admin.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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