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Copy to Dropbox Not Working, Please Help!

 

In-Browser "Copy To Dropbox" option gives an error

I am regularly sent folders on Dropbox. When I click the "Copy to Dropbox" option in a browser (Safari or FireFox, Windows or Mac), I get the result "there was a problem completing this request."

Sometimes, the folder gets added to my Dropbox account anyway, and sometimes, it never does. How do I fix this very annoying bug?

- Question from dropboxforum.com

You're not the first person who has attempted file transfers only to discover that "copy to Dropbox not working" applies. Regardless of operating system—Windows, Mac, Android, or iPhone—this annoying problem can prevent productivity. It can feel like hitting a brick wall when Dropbox won't comply, whether you're attempting to sync business files, back up essential documents, or just move pictures.

Dropbox
Dropbox

So, what’s causing this problem? And more importantly, how do you fix it? In this guide, we’ll break down the common reasons why "copy to Dropbox not working" happens, provide step-by-step troubleshooting for different devices, and even introduce a smarter tool to make file transfers seamless.

Why is "Copy to Dropbox" Not Working?

Understanding the cause of this problem is helpful before attempting to remedy it. Dropbox depends on several things to function properly, including software compatibility, storage capacity, app permissions, and internet access. If any of these are out of whack, you might run into copy to Dropbox not working Windows 10, Mac, or mobile errors.

There are multiple factors that can result in the Dropbox copy failure problem.

Poor Internet Connection: Dropbox needs a stable connection to sync files. If your Wi-Fi is spotty or your mobile data is slow, transfers may fail mid-process.
Outdated Dropbox App or OS: Running an old version of Dropbox? Or maybe your Windows 10 or macOS hasn’t been updated? Compatibility issues can prevent files from copying correctly.
Insufficient Storage Space: If your Dropbox is full, it won’t accept new files. Check your storage quota before assuming the app is broken.
Permission Errors: On Mac and Android, restrictive file permissions can block Dropbox from accessing folders. Similarly, iPhone users might need to enable background app refresh.
Conflicting Software: Antivirus programs or firewall settings sometimes interfere with Dropbox’s syncing process.

No matter the reason, it’s important to find a way to fix it. Now, check the following solutions to troubleshoot.

Fixes to Copy to Dropbox Not Working on Different Devices

Fixes for Copy to Dropbox Not Working on Windows 10, 11

If you’re on Windows and struggling with failed transfers, try these solutions:

Way 1. Restart Dropbox

Sometimes, a simple restart fixes syncing glitches. Try this:

1. Tap the Dropbox icon on the Windows system tray.

2. Click the profile account on the top right and choose Quit from the list.

Quit Dropbox
Quit Dropbox

3. Then run the Dropbox app again to restart.

4. Now check if copy to Dropbox not working is solved.

Way 2. Check Your Internet

Ensure you’re connected to a stable network. Or you need to connect an Ethernet connection to ensure the Internet connection is stable.

Way 3. Update Dropbox & Windows

Outdated software is a common cause. Generally speaking, Dropbox will automatically update the app to fix bugs. So, make sure your Windows version is up to date. Updating to the latest version of the Windows operating system in the Windows Update and Security, and checking if the problem persists.

Update Windows
Update Windows

Way 4. Adjust Firewall Settings

Temporarily disable your firewall to test if it’s blocking Dropbox.

1. In the Windows search box, type "Windows Defender" and press Enter.

2. In the pane on the left, select "Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off".

Turn Off Firewall
Turn Off Firewall

3. For both private and public network settings, use the radio option next to "Turn Off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended)" in the newly opened window.

4. To make the changes take effect, click OK.

Way 5. Reinstall Dropbox

If all else fails, a fresh install might resolve hidden bugs. You need to uninstall Dropbox, then download the latest Dropbox app from the website and install it on your Windows computer to troubleshoot the problem.

Uninstall Dropbox
Uninstall Dropbox

Solutions to Copy to Dropbox Not Working on Mac

Mac users often face permission-related issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

Way 1. Grant Full Disk Access

1. Go to System Preferences on your Mac.

2. Choose Security & Privacy and choose Full Disk Access.

Check Full Disk Access
Check Full Disk Access

3. Enable Dropbox to get full disk access ability.

Way 2. Check macOS Updates

Apple frequently releases fixes for compatibility issues.

Ways to Copy to Dropbox Not Working on Android/iPhone

Android Fixes:

Way 1. Clear the Dropbox cache

You can go to Settings > Apps > Dropbox > Storage > Clear Cache, then copy files to Dropbox easily.

Way 2. Enable Storage Permissions

Ensure the app has storage permissions enabled.

iPhone Fixes:

Way 1. Enable Background App Refresh (Settings > General > Background App Refresh).

Way 2. Update iOS and the Dropbox app from the App Store.

Best Way to Copy Files to Dropbox

If manual fixes aren’t cutting it, MultCloud offers a smarter solution. MultCloud is an all-in-one multiple cloud storage manager, so you can directly upload files to Dropbox, move files between Dropbox folders, or even copy files from one Dropbox account to another easily with MultCloud. Besides, you can enjoy the following benefits:

MultCloud is a comprehensive multiple cloud storage manager, which allows you to add as many as clouds to it and manage all clouds in one place.
It supports 40+ clouds and services, including Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Google Photos, Google Workspace, Dropbox for Business, OneDrive for Business, SharePoint Online, pCloud, Amazon S3, Box, Box for Business, MEGA, MediaFire, NAS, FTP/SFTP, WebDAV, Wasabi, ownCloud, etc.
It offers multiple useful features, like cloud-to-cloud sync, backup, transfer, team transfer, share, copy to, and more to move files between clouds if required.
MultCloud uses 256-bit AES encryption and a standard OAuth authorization system to safeguard your files.

To bypass the Copy to Dropbox not working problem, you can upload files to Dropbox directly with MultCloud. Here is how to do:

1. Sign Up for MultCloud. Create a free account on the MultCloud website and log in to the MultCloud Dashboard.

2. Add Dropbox. Click "Add Cloud" and choose Dropbox, input the needed information to add, and it will be listed automatically on the right side.

Add Dropbox
Add Dropbox

3. Upload Files to Dropbox. Click Dropbox on the left side, open a Dropbox folder, choose Upload File to select files you’d like to upload, and hit Open to upload files to Dropbox directly.

Upload Files to Dropbox
Upload Files to Dropbox
  • Smart Share: Share cloud files via public, private, or source mode.
  • One-key Move: Quick data transfer, sync, and backup among clouds.
  • Email Archive: Protect emails to other clouds or local disks.
  • Remote upload: Effectively save web files to clouds via URL.
  • Save Webpages as PDF/PNG: Keep them locally or online.
  • Instagram Download: Archive Instagram materials locally or online.
  • Easy: Access and manage all clouds in one place with one login.
  • Extensive: 30+ clouds and on-premise services are supported.

The End

Dealing with copying to Dropbox not working can be a headache, but most fixes are straightforward. The preceding fixes ought to get your files going again, regardless of whether you're using Windows 10, Mac, Android, or iPhone. Additionally, if you're sick of Dropbox's drawbacks, MultCloud and similar tools provide a smooth substitute.

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