How to fix
OneDrive disappears from File Explorer after an update
on Windows

Hello. OneDrive is installed on the PC, but it disappears from File Explorer randomly. I once did reset the OneDrive, but it still disappeared after that. I think it is the update issue because the computer is new and the one that got updated also presents this. My wife has her updates stopped, and everything is fine there. Help me!

It can be a serious issue because OneDrive is an important part of Windows 10 or 11 machines. This is the cloud storage that can, unfortunately, cause trouble for users. But the problem is not critical for the system. KB5016616 and KB5012170 updates seem to be commonly linked with this OneDrive missing or disappearing error.[ref en-1]

The problem with OneDrive disappearing from File Explorer can be related to policy settings that prevent the OneDrive from showing up, or the function can be stuck due to file corruption, not proper installation of the upgrade or OS generally. There are various problems that can occur due to the registry editing or missing files there, and the data problem can be closely related to failed installs and buggy updates.[ref en-2] 

OneDrive disappears from File Explorer after an update can be solved by installing the latest updates since the previous upgrade might be the reason these errors occur. Also, switching accounts can help fix the problem with file syncing. You need to make sure that all settings are correct so none of those interfere with the OneDrive.

The error means that service is not accessible or at least not easily. This issue frustrates people and can be annoying for companies and business users. There are various reasons behind the disappearance, and causes include bugs in the system, malware leftovers,[ref en-3] and missing or corrupted files.

As for the latter, missing or corrupted files, even malware leftovers, can be cleared with applications like [d1]. The proper system check offers detection of various files and missing program files that can cause these errors and system failure. This is a quick way that possibly helps to fix OneDrive disappears from File Explorer after an update. Otherwise, look through the steps below that offers more in-depth alterations and fixes.

1. Restart OneDrive

• Right-click the OneDrive icon on the system tray or menu bar.
• Click on Help & Settings to hit Close OneDrive.
• Then search OneDrive in the Windows Search.
• Restart it.

2. Update OneDrive manually

• Hit R and Windows logo keys to open the Run box.
  

  

• Enter the following command and hit OK:
  %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
• Then do the same with:
  %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\update
• Check after the restart if the problem still bothers you.

3. Reinstall OneDrive

• Hold Windows + R to open the Run window.
• Then, paste appwiz.cpl and hit OK.
• Find the OneDrive app and right-click.
• Choose Uninstall button.
  

  

• Go to the official download page and install OneDrive.
• Restart the computer and the OneDrive to see if the issue occurs again.

4. Switch to a Local Account

• Hit the Windows, and I keys to open Settings.
  

  

  
  
• Go to Accounts.
• If you’re already logged in with your Microsoft Account, click on Sign in with a local account instead.
  

  

• Hit Next.
• Enter your account credentials and confirm the authorization.
  

  

• Click OK.
• Follow further instructions and enter what you need.
• Select Sign out and finish.
  

  

  
  
• Navigate to the Settings and go to Accounts.
• Go to Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.
• Enter your login credentials.

5. Clear registry

• Hit the Windows and R key to open Run.
• Type regedit and hit Enter.
• Click Edit at the top and choose Find.
  

  

  
  
• In the field that opens, enter onedrive and make sure to check all Look at options.
• Click Find Next.
  

  

  
  
• All entries should appear, and now you can remove them.
• Then repeat the previous step and remove all entries from the PC.
• The process might take a while, and you need to repeat it a few times.

6. Update Windows

• Open Settings.
• Go to the Update & Security section.
• Choose to Check for updates.
• Install if any available.

7. Edit group policy

• Open the Run box.
• Enter gpedit.msc to open the Local Group Policy Editor window.
• Click on Computer Configuration, then Administrative Templates.
• Choose Windows Components and then OneDrive.
• Locate Prevent the usage of OneDrive for file storage.
• Click on Policy settings and ensure to tick the box next to Not Configured.
• Click OK to confirm your operation.