How to Download from OneDrive and SharePoint Without Errors and Remove Synced Folders

Overview

Downloading and uploading large volumes of files to and from OneDrive and SharePoint can trigger Microsoft’s security restrictions, leading to errors or incomplete operations. This guide provides clear methods for efficiently downloading and uploading files, troubleshooting common errors, and removing synced folders from File Explorer to keep your system organized.

Target Audience

Everyone

High-Level Step-by-Step Overview

To avoid security restrictions that may block large or frequent downloads, use the Sync feature to access files locally via File Explorer. Syncing reduces direct web requests, helping prevent security blocks.

  1. Sync OneDrive or SharePoint to Your Computer
    • Open OneDrive or SharePoint in your web browser.
    • Navigate to the desired folder or document library.
    • Click the Sync button to link it to File Explorer.
  2. Download Files Using Synced Folders
    • Access the synced folder in File Explorer (“OneDrive” or “Sault College”).
    • Copy files to your computer or create a compressed folder for large downloads.
  3. Upload Files to OneDrive or SharePoint
    • Use the web interface: Click Upload and select files or folders.
    • Or, drag files into the synced folder in File Explorer for automatic cloud upload.
  4. Resolve Common Errors
    • Check file names and permissions to avoid issues.
    • Download or upload in smaller batches to prevent security blocks.
  5. Remove Synced Folders from File Explorer
    • Unlink OneDrive via the taskbar’s OneDrive settings.
    • Delete the synced folder from File Explorer.
    • Files remain safe in the cloud and can be re-synced if needed.

Detailed Instructions

Downloading Files from OneDrive or SharePoint

To avoid security restrictions that may block large or frequent downloads, use the Sync feature to access files locally via File Explorer. Syncing reduces direct web requests, helping prevent security blocks.

Using the Sync Feature in OneDrive

  1. Open OneDrive in your web browser.

  2. Navigate to the folder you want to download.

  3. Click the Sync button in the toolbar at the top.Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image: Screenshot of the OneDrive web interface showing the 'Sync' button in the toolbar.

  4. A prompt may appear asking to open the OneDrive app. If the OneDrive app is installed, allow it to open.

  5. The folder will appear in File Explorer under “OneDrive” (typically in the left sidebar).

  6. Access the files in File Explorer to copy or move them as needed.

Note: Syncing adds a folder link to File Explorer, which you may want to remove later (see “Removing a Synced Folder from File Explorer” below).

Using the Sync Feature in SharePoint

  1. Open SharePoint in your web browser.

  2. Navigate to the document library containing the files you want to download.

  3. Click the Sync button in the toolbar at the top.Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image: Screenshot of the SharePoint web interface showing the 'Sync' button in the toolbar.

  4. A prompt may appear asking to open the OneDrive app. If the OneDrive app is installed, allow it to open.

  5. The document library will appear in File Explorer under “Sault College” (typically in the left sidebar).

  6. Access the files in File Explorer to copy or move them as needed.

Note: Syncing adds a folder link to File Explorer, which you may want to remove later (see “Removing a Synced Folder from File Explorer” below).

Downloading from the Web Interface

If you need to prepare files for someone else or manage large volumes of data, use these methods to avoid security blocks:

  • Download in Small Batches: Download smaller groups of files every hour to avoid triggering security measures.

  • Use Compressed Folders:

    1. In File Explorer, navigate to the synced folder.

    2. Right-click, select New > Compressed (zipped) Folder, and name the folder.

    3. Drag or copy the desired files into the compressed folder.

    4. Upload the compressed folder to OneDrive/SharePoint and download it via the web interface. This counts as a single download, reducing the chance of security blocks.

Note: Creating compressed folders is not available directly in the OneDrive/SharePoint web interface.

Uploading Files to OneDrive or SharePoint

Uploading files to OneDrive or SharePoint allows you to store, share, or back up data. Use the web interface for quick uploads or the Sync feature for managing large or frequent uploads locally.

Uploading via the OneDrive Web Interface

  1. Open OneDrive in your web browser.

  2. Navigate to the folder where you want to upload files.

  3. Click the Upload button in the toolbar and select Files or Folder.
    Image: Screenshot of the OneDrive web interface showing the 'Upload' button and options.

  4. Browse your computer, select the files or folder, and click Open.

  5. Monitor the upload progress in the web interface. For large uploads, upload in smaller batches to avoid errors.

Note: Ensure file names avoid special characters (e.g., #, %, *) and are not excessively long to prevent upload errors.

Uploading via the SharePoint Web Interface

  1. Open SharePoint in your web browser.

  2. Navigate to the document library where you want to upload files.

  3. Click the Upload button in the toolbar and select Files or Folder.
    Image: Screenshot of the SharePoint web interface showing the 'Upload' button and options.

  4. Browse your computer, select the files or folder, and click Open.

  5. Monitor the upload progress in the web interface. For large uploads, upload in smaller batches to avoid errors.

Note: Ensure file names comply with SharePoint’s naming rules to prevent errors.

Uploading via Synced Folders

  1. Ensure the OneDrive or SharePoint folder is synced to File Explorer (see “Using the Sync Feature” above).

  2. Open File Explorer and navigate to the synced folder (“OneDrive” or “Sault College”).

  3. Drag or copy files from your computer into the synced folder.

  4. OneDrive will automatically upload the files to the cloud. Check the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar for sync status.

Note: Syncing is ideal for large or frequent uploads, as it handles transfers locally and reduces web interface errors.

Handling Error Files and Microsoft Download Blocks

When Microsoft detects excessive download activity, it may block requests and create placeholder error files with messages explaining the issue. Below are tips to prevent errors, common error types, and solutions.

Preventing Common Errors

To minimize issues before downloading:

  • Check file names for special characters (e.g., #, %, *) or excessive length.

  • Verify you have permissions for all files in the folder or library.

  • Test syncing a small batch of files to confirm the connection.

  • For uploads, ensure files are not open in another program, which can cause failures.

Common Error Messages and Solutions

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Error files appear in the same folder where the download was attempted. Open them to identify the issue:

  • File Name Too Long
    Issue: The file path or name exceeds the allowable length.
    Solution: Shorten the file name or move the file to a higher-level folder to reduce the path length.

  • Too Many Requests
    Issue: The system blocked downloads due to excessive simultaneous requests.
    Solution: Download files in smaller batches, waiting an hour or more between attempts.

  • Access Denied
    Issue: You lack permission to download certain files.
    Solution: Check file permissions in the OneDrive/SharePoint web interface and request access if needed.
    Location: Error messages may also appear directly in the web interface.

  • __all_error
    Issue: Indicates a general sync issue (e.g., network problems, file name issues, or service interruptions).
    Solution: Troubleshoot based on the specific error message in the file.

  • __{name}_error
    Issue: Points to a specific file or folder issue, such as invalid characters or name length.
    Solution: Rename the file or folder to comply with allowed parameters.

Upload Errors

Upload errors typically appear in the web interface or OneDrive sync status:

  • File Size Limit Exceeded
    Issue: Files exceed OneDrive/SharePoint size limits (250 GB for OneDrive, 15 GB for SharePoint).
    Solution: Compress large files or split them into smaller parts before uploading.

  • Invalid File Name
    Issue: File names contain special characters or are too long.
    Solution: Rename files to remove special characters and shorten names.

  • Access Denied
    Issue: You lack permission to upload to the folder or library.
    Solution: Verify permissions with the folder/library owner or administrator.

  • Sync Conflict
    Issue: Files in the synced folder conflict with existing cloud versions.
    Solution: Resolve conflicts via the OneDrive app (check the cloud icon for details) or rename the local file.

Steps to Resolve Errors

  1. Interpret the Error: Open the error file to read the specific message.

  2. Address the Issue: Apply the solution based on the error type above.

  3. Retry the Download: Use the Sync method or web interface to try again.

Removing a Synced OneDrive/SharePoint Folder from File Explorer

After downloading / uploading files, you may want to remove synced folders from File Explorer to keep it organized. Follow these steps:

Open OneDrive Settings

  1. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your taskbar (bottom-right corner of the screen).

  2. Select Help & Settings > Settings.

Unlink the OneDrive Account

  1. In the OneDrive Settings window, go to the Account tab.

  2. Click Unlink this PC to disconnect your OneDrive account.

Remove the Synced Folder

  1. Open File Explorer.

  2. Locate the folder in the left sidebar (typically labeled “OneDrive” for OneDrive or “Sault College” for SharePoint).

  3. Right-click the folder and select Delete to remove it from File Explorer.

What Happens to the Files?

  • On Your Computer: Unlinking OneDrive or deleting the synced folder removes local copies of the files from your device.

  • In OneDrive/SharePoint: The original files remain safe in OneDrive or SharePoint and are not deleted. You can access them again via the web interface or by re-syncing.

Important:

  • If you need the files locally again, re-sync OneDrive or SharePoint.

  • Ensure all downloads are complete before unlinking or deleting folders to avoid losing local access to files.

Troubleshooting FAQ

Q: What if the Sync button doesn’t work?
A: Ensure the OneDrive app is installed and updated. Sign out and back into OneDrive, then try again.

Q: Why don’t I see the synced folder in File Explorer?
A: Confirm OneDrive is running (check for the cloud icon in the taskbar) and that you allowed the sync prompt. Restart OneDrive if needed.

Q: What if I accidentally delete files from File Explorer?
A: Files deleted locally are moved to the OneDrive/SharePoint Recycle Bin online and can be restored.

Q: Why does my upload fail in the web interface?
A: Check for file size limits, invalid file names, or permission issues. Try uploading smaller batches or using the synced folder.

Q: What if I get a sync conflict when uploading?
A: Check the OneDrive cloud icon for conflict notifications. Rename the local file or resolve the conflict via the OneDrive app.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can efficiently download and upload files to OneDrive and SharePoint, resolve common errors, and keep your File Explorer organized by removing synced folders when no longer needed.

 

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