OneDrive synchronization issues

Move the hidden .[GUID] file out of the OneDrive folder and retain it temporarily; hidden or temporary files can block synchronization, and moving the file is safer than deleting an unidentified file.

Remove the file from synchronization safely

1. Select the OneDrive cloud icon in the Windows taskbar or macOS menu bar.
2. Open Help & Settings and select Pause syncing.
3. Close any applications that may have created or opened the file.
4. In File Explorer or Finder, move
   .[GUID]
   to a local folder outside OneDrive, such as a temporary folder on the desktop.
   • Do not delete it yet because its originating application and contents are unknown.
   • If it cannot be moved, it is probably still in use. Restart the computer, pause OneDrive again, and retry.
5. Select the OneDrive cloud icon and choose Resume syncing.
6. Confirm that:
   • the circular synchronization indicator disappears;
   • OneDrive reports Your files are synced or Up to date; and
   • the rest of your files remain available on OneDrive online.

Microsoft documents that unknown or hidden files can leave OneDrive stuck processing changes, and recommends identifying them from the OneDrive activity list.^1^ For temporary files specifically, supported options include moving the file outside OneDrive, renaming it, or deleting it—but deletion should only be used when the file is known to be unnecessary.^2^

Leave the moved file outside OneDrive until its originating application is identified. If an application later reports missing data, restore the file to the application’s expected non-OneDrive location.

If OneDrive remains stuck

Unlink and reconnect the affected account to rebuild its synchronization relationship:

• Windows: OneDrive cloud icon → Help & Settings → Settings → Account → Unlink this PC.
• macOS: OneDrive cloud icon → Preferences/Settings → Account → Unlink this Mac.

Then reopen OneDrive, sign in, select the required folders, and allow the initial synchronization to finish. Microsoft recommends unlinking and relinking when “Processing changes” persists after the blocking file has been addressed.^1^

If this is a work or school account and the same file reappears immediately, record which application creates it and provide that information, along with the OneDrive client version and operating system, to the organization’s Microsoft 365 administrator.

References

1. Troubleshoot OneDrive Sync Issues: Stuck on "Processing Changes" | Microsoft Support
2. OneDrive is stuck on "Sync pending" | Microsoft Support