How to Clear OneDrive Cache In Windows 11

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You urgently need to access an important file on OneDrive, but instead of opening smoothly, your sync gets stuck, the app lags, or files just refuse to update. 

Many Windows 11 users face this exact problem, and more often than not, the hidden culprit is a cluttered OneDrive cache. Over time, cached files pile up in the background, slowing down performance, eating up storage, and causing endless sync errors.

The good part is that you don’t need to reinstall OneDrive or spend hours troubleshooting. A simple cache clear-out can refresh the app, fix sync issues, and get your cloud storage running like new again. In this guide, we’ll walk you step by step through how to clear OneDrive cache in Windows 11. 

How to Clear OneDrive Cache In Windows 11

There are several ways to clear the OneDrive cache, depending on whether you’re using the desktop app or OneDrive for Business. Let’s go step by step.

  • Clear OneDrive Cache Using Run Command

 This is the quickest way to wipe out the cache:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type this command and hit Enter: %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
  3. OneDrive will close and restart automatically.
  4. If it doesn’t restart, open it manually by searching “OneDrive” in the Start menu.

This resets the cache and re-syncs your files without deleting your data.

  • Manually Delete OneDrive Cache Folder

For a more hands-on approach:

  1. Press Windows + R, type: %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive and hit enter. 
  2. Look for folders named cache or temporary sync files.
  3. Select and delete these folders.
  4. Restart your computer and relaunch OneDrive.

  • Clear OneDrive for Business Cache

If you use OneDrive for Business (part of Microsoft 365), the cache works slightly differently.

  1. Press Windows + R, then type: %localappdata%\Microsoft\Office\16.0\OfficeFileCache
  2. Delete all files inside this folder.
  3. Restart your system and open OneDrive again.

This clears cached Office files linked to OneDrive for Business.

  • Reset OneDrive Completely (Last Resort)

If clearing the cache doesn’t solve the issue, a full reset might help.

  1. Open the Run dialog (Windows + R).
  2. Enter: %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
  3. If OneDrive doesn’t restart, run: %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe

A full reset disconnects and reconnects your OneDrive and fixes deeper sync problems.

Best Practices to Avoid OneDrive Cache Issues

  • Keep OneDrive Updated

Microsoft frequently releases fixes for sync and cache issues. Enable automatic updates to ensure you’re always on the latest version.

  • Avoid Overloading Sync

Syncing massive folders (like entire movies or software libraries) clogs OneDrive. Keep your sync folders organized and only include essentials.

  • Use Files On-Demand

Enable Files On-Demand in OneDrive settings. This way, files are stored in the cloud and only downloaded when you open them, reducing cache build-up.

  • Monitor Storage Space

Low disk space can worsen cache problems. Keep at least 10–15% of your drive free for smooth OneDrive operations.

Why Clearing OneDrive Cache Is Important?

  • Fixes Sync Errors

 If your OneDrive is stuck on “sync pending” or shows repeated errors, clearing the cache forces a fresh sync.

  • Frees Up Space

Cached files can take up gigabytes of unnecessary storage on your device.

  • Refreshes File Versions

 Sometimes, outdated cached versions overwrite the latest files. Clearing resets this.

  • Improves Speed

 A bloated cache slows OneDrive down, making file transfers sluggish.

  • Resolves Corrupt Data

Damaged cache files often cause glitches; removing them eliminates the issue.

Troubleshooting Common Problems After Clearing Cache

Clearing the cache usually fixes issues, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. If you see files missing in Explorer, don’t panic. They’re safe in the cloud. OneDrive will re-sync them shortly.
  2. After a reset, you may need to sign back into your Microsoft account.
  3. Use OneDriver’s web version to upload them instead.
  4. Cache reappears quickly. This is normal. OneDrive rebuilds the cache for smooth operation. Only worry if it grows excessively large.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will clearing the OneDrive cache delete my files?
No. Your files remain safe in the cloud. Clearing the cache only removes temporary files on your PC.

Q2: How often should I clear the cache?
Only when you face sync problems or slowdowns. For most users, once or twice a year is enough.

Q3: Can I clear the cache without losing offline files?
Yes. Offline files stay intact unless you manually delete them.

Q4: What if OneDrive still doesn’t work after clearing the cache?
Try reinstalling OneDrive or using the OneDrive web app temporarily.

Q5: Is there a difference between cache clearing and resetting?
Yes. Cache clearing removes temporary files, while a reset disconnects and reconnects OneDrive completely.