Will OneDrive sync when computer is asleep? Find out how to keep it active

Introduction to OneDrive Syncing

Microsoft's cloud storage service, OneDrive, provides a smooth method for sharing, syncing, and storing information between devices. The synchronization feature of OneDrive makes sure that all devices linked to the account have the most recent versions of all files and folders. But frequently, people are curious about how OneDrive behaves when their machine goes into sleep mode. So, will OneDrive sync when computer is asleep?

Will OneDrive Sync When Computer is Asleep

Will OneDrive sync when computer is asleep? No. OneDrive typically does not sync when your computer is asleep due to the system being in a low-power state, which prevents the syncing process from continuing.

The way that OneDrive syncs data is that it keeps an eye out for changes to files and folders. OneDrive synchronizes changes made to a file to the cloud and to other devices when the file is added, updated, or destroyed. The computer must be turned on and have an internet connection for this process to work. A computer enters a low-power state when it goes to sleep, which suspends most functions, including the syncing process for OneDrive. This design seeks to minimize power usage and prolong battery life.

Scenarios Where Syncing May Fail During Sleep Mode

Several scenarios can lead to syncing failures during sleep mode:

• Power Settings: When a computer sleeps, it essentially pauses all background processes, including OneDrive sync.
• Network Disconnection: Sleep mode often disconnects the device from the internet, halting any ongoing sync operations.
• System Updates: If your computer installs updates or restarts during sleep, OneDrive sync might be disrupted.

Common OneDrive Syncing Issues During Sleep Mode

When OneDrive fails to sync during sleep mode, it can manifest in several ways. Users might notice that recent changes made on one device are not reflected on another. Additionally, OneDrive might show error messages or syncing icons indicating that the sync process was interrupted.

Factors Affecting Sync in Sleep Mode

Several factors can affect OneDrive's ability to sync during sleep mode:

• Power Settings: Some power settings allow partial network activity during sleep, but these are not always effective.
• Network Connectivity: Maintaining a network connection during sleep is crucial for syncing, which most sleep modes do not support.
• Hardware Configurations: Some newer hardware may support features like Modern Standby, which allows limited background activity during sleep.

Troubleshooting Steps for Syncing Issues

To resolve syncing issues, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Check Internet Connection: Ensure your device has a stable internet connection.
• Update OneDrive: Make sure you have the latest version of OneDrive installed.
• Restart OneDrive: Sometimes, simply restarting the OneDrive application can resolve syncing issues.

How Different Operating Systems Handle Syncing

Different operating systems handle sleep mode and syncing differently:

• Windows: Windows devices typically stop all background tasks, including OneDrive sync, when in sleep mode. However, certain configurations, like Modern Standby, might allow some network activity.
• MacOS: MacOS also suspends background tasks during sleep, but features like Power Nap allow some activity, such as receiving emails and updating calendar events, though this does not extend to OneDrive syncing.

How to Keep OneDrive Active When Computer Sleeps

Keeping OneDrive active during sleep requires tweaking some settings. Here are three methods to ensure continuous syncing:

Method 1: Adjusting Power Settings

• Open Control Panel: Go to the Control Panel on your computer.
• Select Power Options: Navigate to Power Options and click on "Change plan settings" next to your selected power plan.
• Change Advanced Power Settings: Click on "Change advanced power settings."
• Expand Sleep Settings: In the advanced settings window, expand the "Sleep" section.
• Allow Wake Timers: Set "Allow wake timers" to "Enable." This setting can help keep the computer active enough to perform background tasks.

Method 2: Using Network Connectivity in Sleep Mode

• Open Settings: Go to the Settings app on your Windows device.
• Navigate to Network & Internet: Select Network & Internet from the menu.
• Open Wi-Fi Settings: Click on Wi-Fi and then select "Manage known networks."
• Set Network as Metered Connection: Choose your Wi-Fi network and set it as a metered connection. This step can help control when the network remains active.
• Enable Stay Connected to Wi-Fi: In the Power & Sleep settings, ensure the option to "Stay connected to Wi-Fi" is enabled during sleep.

Method 3: Configuring Windows Settings for Continuous Sync

• Open Group Policy Editor: Press Win + R, type "gpedit.msc," and press Enter.
• Navigate to Administrative Templates: Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > Network Connectivity in Standby.
• Enable Connectivity: Double-click on "Enable network connectivity in Standby" and set it to "Enabled."
• Apply and Restart: Apply the changes and restart your computer for the settings to take effect.

These methods ensure your device remains connected and OneDrive can continue syncing even when your computer is asleep.

OneDrive Sleep Mode Sync Settings

Customizing OneDrive Sync Preferences

Customizing OneDrive's sync settings can also help manage how and when it syncs:

• Open OneDrive Settings: Right-click on the OneDrive icon in the taskbar and select "Settings."
• Choose Folders to Sync: Under the Account tab, click on "Choose folders." Select only the necessary folders to minimize sync load.
• Adjust Sync Frequency: Some third-party apps can help you set sync frequency, allowing you to manage OneDrive's syncing intervals.

Managing Sync Settings for Optimal Performance

• Limit Bandwidth: In OneDrive settings, under the Network tab, you can limit the upload and download bandwidth to ensure it doesn't interfere with other activities.
• Enable Files On-Demand: Use the Files On-Demand feature to keep files online until needed, reducing the amount of data OneDrive needs to sync.
• Regular Sync Schedule: Schedule regular syncs during active hours to avoid conflicts with sleep mode.

Alternatives and Workarounds for OneDrive Syncing Issues

Using Third-Party Applications

Several third-party applications can enhance OneDrive's functionality, ensuring continuous syncing:

• GoodSync: Offers robust file synchronization and backup solutions that work with OneDrive.
• SyncToy: A free utility by Microsoft that can help manage file syncs between local folders and OneDrive.
• Allway Sync: Another powerful sync tool that supports various cloud services, including OneDrive.

Scheduling Syncs During Active Hours

Instead of trying to sync during sleep mode, schedule syncs during times when the computer is active:

• Task Scheduler: Use Windows Task Scheduler to set up OneDrive sync tasks at specific times.
• Automate Sync Times: Automate sync times during periods of high activity, such as during work hours.
• Avoid Peak Hours: Schedule syncs during non-peak hours to ensure bandwidth availability.

FAQ About OneDrive Sync When Computer is Asleep

Will OneDrive sync when my computer is asleep

A: No, OneDrive does not typically sync when your computer is asleep because sleep mode disables most background processes, including syncing.

How can I keep OneDrive syncing when my computer is in sleep mode

A: You can adjust power settings, enable network connectivity in sleep mode, and configure specific OneDrive settings to attempt keeping it active during sleep.

Does OneDrive sync in sleep mode on Windows

A: Generally, OneDrive does not sync in sleep mode on Windows. However, features like Modern Standby might allow limited background activity.

Why is my OneDrive not syncing when my PC is asleep

A: This could be due to power settings, network disconnection, or system configurations that disable background tasks during sleep mode.

Can I schedule OneDrive to sync at specific times

A: Yes, you can use Windows Task Scheduler to set specific times for OneDrive to sync, ensuring it operates during active hours.

What are the best practices for OneDrive sync settings

A: Best practices include customizing sync preferences, limiting bandwidth, enabling Files On-Demand, and scheduling regular syncs to optimize performance.

How does MacOS handle OneDrive syncing during sleep mode

A: MacOS suspends most background tasks during sleep, but features like Power Nap allow some activity, though this typically does not include OneDrive syncing.

Write in the End

In conclusion, even if OneDrive doesn't automatically sync when a computer is asleep, there are a number of ways to control and optimize sync settings to guarantee that your files are always current. You can keep your devices' file synchronization running smoothly by modifying the power settings, turning on network connectivity while you sleep, and scheduling syncs for times when you're not using them.

Bonus Tip: Transfer or sync files between OneDrive and other cloud services

This article addresses the question “Will OneDrive sync when the computer is asleep?” If you’re considering migrating files from your current cloud service to OneDrive, or vice versa, MultCloud can be extremely useful. Trusted by over 3 million users, MultCloud is a multi-cloud management tool that facilitates transferring or synchronizing files between various cloud services.

For instance, it allows for seamless file transfers from cloud drives like Google Drive to OneDrive without the need to download and then re-upload files. MultCloud also enables you to access and manage all your cloud accounts via a single application. Currently, it supports more than 30 different cloud services, including Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Box, Google Photos, iCloud Photos, FTP, WebDAV, and more.