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Can't Start OneDrive on Mac? Solved!

Is your OneDrive app on Mac acting up, particularly after the macOS Monterey update? You're not alone! Many users are facing issues like "OneDrive can't start mac" or crashes upon startup. This guide delves into solutions to fix OneDrive crashing on Mac startup, including troubleshooting steps specific to Monterey. We'll help you get your OneDrive back up and running smoothly, ensuring seamless file syncing.

October 23, 2024

Preface

OneDrive

The issue that "OneDrive can't start Mac" is so common. This notification appears when you turn on your Mac, hoping to access your files in the cloud. Don't panic!  You may continue your file syncing with the cloud without any issues by using this method to diagnose and fix the "OneDrive can't start Mac" issue.

Understand the "OneDrive Can't Start Mac" Error

OneDrive is a cloud storage service that enables you to save your files online and share them with others. OneDrive works discreetly in the background to seamlessly sync your data between your Mac and the cloud. However, there are several reasons why OneDrive could stop working properly. Basically, this error message is telling you that OneDrive isn't opening properly or isn't connecting to your Mac.

Troubleshooting Steps for a Smooth OneDrive Launch

Before diving into complex solutions, let's tackle some basic troubleshooting steps that often resolve the "OneDrive won't launch Mac OS Monterey" or similar errors:

  • Basic Checks and Restarts

Although it may seem apparent, sometimes all it takes is a restart to make things function like magic. OneDrive needs a steady internet connection to connect to its servers, so make sure your Mac has one. Try starting the OneDrive app once more after giving your Mac a restart. Try stopping and starting the OneDrive app again if the problem continues.

  • Verify Permissions

The notice "OneDrive error message Mac permission denied" may occasionally appear, suggesting that OneDrive is not authorized to access certain folders on your Mac. To deal with this:

Step 1: Open "Finder" on your Mac.

Step 2: Navigate to the folder where your OneDrive files are stored (usually located within your user directory).

Step 3: Right-click on the OneDrive folder and select "Get Info."

Step 4: Make sure that your user account has "Read & Write" access under the "Sharing & Permissions" section. If not, to make modifications, click the lock symbol and input your administrator password.

Step 5: Press "OK" to end the "Get Info" window and give yourself permission to "Read & Write".

  • Address Monterey-Specific Issues

If you're a Mac user, the issue can be caused by incompatibility. You can look for upgrades for the OneDrive app. Microsoft fixes issues and enhances compatibility on a regular basis through updates. Visit the Mac App Store to check whether OneDrive has any upgrades available. Installing the most recent update could fix the problem if a known bug was the cause.

Advanced Fixes for Persistent Issues

If the basic troubleshooting steps fail to resolve the "one drive app crashes on startup Mac" or other persistent issues, consider these more advanced approaches:

Resetting OneDrive

Resetting OneDrive on your Mac basically removes all of its configuration and settings. This occasionally resolves issues caused by bugs or incorrect settings. While using Terminal commands to reset OneDrive is possible, this method is recommended for individuals who are tech-savvy and have experience with the command line.

For non-technical users, a simpler method exists:

Step 1: Open "System Preferences" on your Mac.

Step 2: Click on "Accounts".

Step 3: Select your user account from the list on the left.

Step 4:  Click on the "Cloud" tab. Then find the entry for "OneDrive" and click the "Unlink" button.

Step 5: Now, launch the OneDrive app and sign in with your Microsoft account again.

Reinstalling OneDrive:

If resetting OneDrive isn't a possibility, the last resort is to start again from scratch. You will download a fresh copy of OneDrive and remove the existing installation by doing this. Here's how you go about it:

Important Note: Before reinstalling OneDrive, be sure to make a backup of any crucial files stored locally in the OneDrive folder on your computer. Reinstalling will erase any local copies that you haven't yet synchronized, but it won't effect files saved in the cloud. Follow these steps to finish the reinstallation procedure:

  • Open "Finder" on your Mac.
  • Navigate to the Applications folder (usually located within your Macintosh HD).
  • Locate the "OneDrive" app and drag it to the Trash.
  • Empty the Trash to completely remove the application.
  • Visit the official OneDrive download page for Mac.
  • Download the latest version of the OneDrive application.
  • Once downloaded, double-click the installer file and follow the on-screen notes to complete the installation.
  • Launch the newly installed OneDrive app and sign in with your Microsoft account.

Seeking Additional Support

Try all of the above troubleshooting methods again, and if the "OneDrive can't start Mac" error persists, don't hesitate to contact Microsoft using their official support channels. They offer specific resources to help people who are having problems with OneDrive. For additional assistance, you can call them, use live chat, or visit their support page.

Bonus Tip: How to Connect OneDrive and Other Clouds

Encountering issues with OneDrive not starting on your Mac can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for syncing important files and documents. This problem can stem from various factors, including software conflicts or outdated versions. However, while you work on resolving these issues, you might be looking for alternative ways to access and manage your files. This is where MultCloud comes in.

By using MultCloud, you can connect your OneDrive account and access your files from any web browser, bypassing the need for the desktop app altogether. This not only allows you to stay productive while troubleshooting OneDrive but also enables seamless file transfers between multiple cloud services. Let’s explore some solutions for OneDrive issues on Mac and how MultCloud can enhance your cloud storage experience.

  • Cloud Transfer: MultCloud can transfer files from one cloud service to another directly without downloading and re-uploading.
  • Cloud Sync: With MultCloud, you can easily sync two folders between different cloud services in real-time.
  • Cloud Backup: You can backup and restore data between different cloud services automatically.
  • Instagram Downloader: MultCloud can help you download Instagram videos, photos, reels and stories to local device or remotely upload them to your clouds.
  • Email Migration: You can directly back up and save Gmail emails as PDFs to your computer or cloud drive in bulk. 
  • Manage all cloud accounts in one place: Connect all your clouds to MultCloud and you'll find it so easy to access and manage multiple cloud storage files with a single login.

Quickly transfer, sync or backup files from one cloud to another.

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