Resolving OneDrive Error: You’re Already Syncing a Shortcut to a Folder from This Shared Library

The OneDrive error “You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library” typically occurs when users attempt to sync a SharePoint Online document library that already has a shortcut in OneDrive. This error prevents the synchronization of the folder, causing frustration and hindering access to important shared files.

Causes of the Error

Here are the common causes of the OneDrive error “You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library”:

1. Existing Shortcuts:

   • Duplicate Shortcuts: If a shortcut to the same folder already exists in OneDrive, attempting to sync it again will trigger this error.
   • Hidden Shortcuts: Sometimes, shortcuts might not be visible in the OneDrive folder but still exist, causing conflicts.

2. Multiple Sync Attempts:

   • Concurrent Syncs: Trying to sync the same folder from different devices or accounts simultaneously can lead to this error.
   • Previous Syncs Not Fully Removed: If a previous sync attempt wasn’t fully removed or cleaned up, it can interfere with new sync attempts.

3. Conflicts with Shared Libraries:

   • Shared Library Sync Conflicts: When a folder from a shared library is already being synced as a shortcut, attempting to sync it again directly from SharePoint can cause this error.
   • Sync vs. Shortcut: Using both the “Sync” and “Add shortcut to OneDrive” features for the same SharePoint library can create conflicts.

Identifying the Error

To identify the OneDrive error “You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library,” look for these specific error messages and symptoms:

Error Messages

• “Sorry, we can’t sync this folder. You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library.”
• “Sorry, we can’t create a shortcut to [folder name] because you already have one to a folder inside it. Do you want to replace that shortcut with [folder name]?”

Symptoms

• Syncing stops unexpectedly.
• The folder you want to sync does not appear in the OneDrive account tab.
• A small link icon appears on the folder in OneDrive.

Diagnostic Steps

1. Check for Existing Shortcuts:

   • Open OneDrive folder on your device.
   • Look for folders with a small link icon.
   • Use File Explorer to search for “*.lnk” files.

2. Remove Shortcuts:

   • Right-click the shortcut folder and select “Delete.”
   • If deletion fails, pause syncing in the OneDrive sync app and try again.

3. Check OneDrive Web:

   • Sign in to your Microsoft 365 account.
   • Navigate to OneDrive and select “My files.”
   • Find and remove the shortcut folder with the link icon.

4. Re-sync:

   • Log out of OneDrive.
   • Click “Sync” on the shared library from OneDrive.com.
   • Go to OneDrive settings and sync your personal folder.

These steps should help you identify and resolve the error.

Resolving the Error

Sure, here are the step-by-step instructions to resolve the OneDrive error “You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library”:

Method 1: Remove Existing Shortcuts

1. Open OneDrive Folder on Your Device:

   • Locate the OneDrive folder on your computer.
   • Find the shortcut folder with a small link icon.
   • Right-click the shortcut folder and select Delete.

2. Remove Shortcut from OneDrive Site:

   • Sign in to your Microsoft 365 account.
   • Select OneDrive from the app launcher or open your OneDrive site URL directly.
   • In the upper-left corner, select My files.
   • Find the shortcut folder with a small link icon.
   • Right-click the folder or select the three dots icon next to the folder, then select Remove.

Method 2: Re-sync Folders

1. Pause Syncing in OneDrive Sync App:

   • Click on the OneDrive icon in the taskbar.
   • Select Help & Settings > Pause syncing.

2. Remove Existing Sync:

   • Go to the OneDrive settings.
   • Under the Account tab, find the folder you want to stop syncing.
   • Click Stop sync.

3. Re-sync the Folder:

   • Go to the SharePoint or Teams site where the folder is located.
   • Click Sync to start syncing the folder again.

Method 3: Use OneDrive Settings

1. Open OneDrive Settings:

   • Click on the OneDrive icon in the taskbar.
   • Select Help & Settings > Settings.

2. Manage Storage:

   • Go to the Account tab.
   • Click Choose folders.
   • Ensure the correct folders are selected for syncing.

3. Check for Shortcuts:

   • Search for any shortcuts in your OneDrive folder.
   • Remove any shortcuts that might be causing conflicts.

These steps should help you resolve the error and get your OneDrive syncing properly again.

Preventing Future Errors

Here are some tips and best practices to prevent the “OneDrive error: you’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library” in the future:

1. Regular Maintenance:

   • Periodically review and clean up your OneDrive and SharePoint folders to remove any unnecessary shortcuts or duplicate files.
   • Ensure that your OneDrive app is up-to-date to benefit from the latest fixes and improvements.

2. Avoid Duplicate Shortcuts:

   • Before creating a new shortcut, check if a shortcut to the same folder already exists. This can prevent conflicts and errors.
   • Use consistent naming conventions for shortcuts to easily identify and manage them.

3. Proper Sync Management:

   • Use either the “Sync” or “Add shortcut to OneDrive” feature, but not both for the same folder. Mixing these can cause sync issues.
   • If you encounter sync issues, pause syncing, remove the problematic shortcut, and then re-add it if necessary.

4. Organize Your Folders:

   • Keep a clear structure in your OneDrive and SharePoint libraries. Avoid deeply nested folders as they can complicate sync processes.
   • Regularly audit your folder structure to ensure it remains organized and efficient.

5. Monitor Sync Status:

   • Regularly check the sync status in the OneDrive app to catch and resolve issues early.
   • Use the OneDrive web interface to manage and troubleshoot sync issues if they arise.

By following these practices, you can minimize the chances of encountering sync errors and maintain a smooth OneDrive experience.

The OneDrive Error: ‘You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library’

The error occurs when there are duplicate shortcuts or conflicting sync settings.

To resolve this issue, regularly maintain your OneDrive and SharePoint folders by:

• Removing unnecessary shortcuts
• Ensuring consistent naming conventions

Avoid mixing the ‘Sync’ and ‘Add shortcut to OneDrive’ features for the same folder, and keep a clear structure in your libraries.

Maintaining good housekeeping practices can help prevent errors. Additionally, monitoring sync status and addressing issues promptly can also help resolve this issue.