Fix “OneDrive the Source and Destination Files are the Same”

• Differences Between the 2 Similar OneDrive Issues
• How to Fix “OneDrive the Source and Destination Files are the Same”
• How to Fix “The Source and Destination File Names are the Same”
• Bonus Tip: Best Way to Sync SharePoint with OneDrive via MultCloud
• Conclusion

Differences Between the 2 Similar OneDrive Issues

In the context of OneDrive, it's critical to explain the subtleties of these error messages. Despite their similarities, they suggest somewhat different possible underlying problems. This is a summary:

OneDrive "The source and destination file names are the same."

• This error frequently indicates that there is an issue with the path length of the file rather than just the file name.
• The total length of a file's path, including the drive letter, folder names, and file name, is limited by Windows. OneDrive may experience issues syncing or saving the file if this limit is exceeded.
• Therefore, a lengthy chain of folders leading to the file may cause this error even if the file name is short.
• This may also occur when OneDrive experiences file synchronization problems and becomes confused between local and cloud files.

OneDrive "The source and destination files are the same."

• This might be connected to the same problem as previously mentioned, but in a broader sense.
• It may also happen if OneDrive notices a conflict or an attempt to carry out an action that it considers unnecessary.
• This could be the result of sync issues or an attempt to save a file while it is being edited before the sync is finished.

In short

• A common sign of the "path length" issue is the "file names" error.
• In addition to path length, other sync-related problems may also be the cause of the "files are the same" error.

How to Fix “OneDrive the Source and Destination Files are the Same”

The "source and destination files are the same" error in OneDrive can be tricky, as it can stem from a few different underlying issues. Here's a breakdown of common causes and how to address them:

1. Problems with Path Length (Primary Suspect):

The main issue may still be going over the Windows file path length limit despite this error message. Therefore, the first and most crucial action is to:

• Reduce the length of file and folder names: Try to keep them as brief as you can.
• Cut down on folder nesting: Files should be moved closer to the OneDrive folder's root.

2. OneDrive Synchronization Conflicts:

Temporary Sync Issues:

During synchronization, OneDrive may occasionally become confused.

► Restart OneDrive: Reopen OneDrive after fully shutting it down (check your system tray).

► Pause and Resume Syncing: Try pausing OneDrive sync and then resuming it by right-clicking the OneDrive icon in the system tray.

Resetting OneDrive:

Step 1. Hit the Windows key and R.

Step 2. Press Enter after typing %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset.

Step 3. OneDrive will restart.

File Conflicts:

Conflicts may arise when editing a file across several devices.

► Verify for Conflicted Copies: OneDrive occasionally produces files with conflicting copies. Take note of files that have names such as "[filename] ([computer name] conflict)". Choose the version you wish to maintain.

3. Problems with "Files On-Demand":

► Verify Correct Settings: Make sure "Files On-Demand” is operating properly. Errors may occasionally arise from problems with this feature.

► Verify the status of the file: Examine the status icons next to your OneDrive files in File Explorer. Verify that they are syncing properly.

4. Issues with the File System:

Check for Disk Errors:

File synchronization problems can occasionally be caused by hard drive issues.

► Launch Check Disk: To find and fix disk errors, use the Windows Check Disk tool.

5. Updates for OneDrive:

Update OneDrive: Microsoft frequently publishes updates to OneDrive that enhance functionality and address bugs. Verify that OneDrive is up to date on your computer.

How to Fix “The Source and Destination File Names are the Same”

The main cause of OneDrive's "source and destination file names are the same" error is going over Windows' file path length restrictions. This is an explanation of how to resolve it:

1. Make File Paths Shorter:

Reduce Folder Depth:

Overly nested folders are the most frequent cause. Files should be moved closer to the OneDrive folder's root.

Reduce the length of file and folder names:

Change long folders and files to shorter, clearer names. Each and every character matters!

Assess the structure of your folders:

Think about whether the structure of your folders is too complicated. Sometimes, the issue can be resolved by making the structure simpler.

2. Being Aware of Windows Limitations:

• The maximum path length in Windows is 260 characters. This comprises the file name, folder name, and drive letter.
• This restriction is inherited by OneDrive since it is integrated with Windows.

3. Points to Remember and Extra Advice:

OneDrive Online:

Try using the OneDrive website to access files if you're experiencing issues with File Explorer. Sometimes, this can get around problems with local path length.

"Files On-Demand":

Ensure your OneDrive "Files On-Demand" settings are configured correctly. Sometimes, sync issues can trigger these errors.

OneDrive Reset:

Try resetting OneDrive if the issue continues. This can fix underlying issues with sync:

Step 1. Hit the Windows key and R.

Step 2. Press Enter after typing %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset.

Step 3. OneDrive will restart. Then, start it manually if it doesn't.

Keep OneDrive Up to Date:

Verify that OneDrive is up to date on your computer. Microsoft regularly releases performance-enhancing and bug-fixing updates.

Bonus Tip: Best Way to Sync SharePoint with OneDrive via MultCloud

According to some users’ issues, the “OneDrive the source and destination files are the same” can be related to SharePoint-OneDrive syncing. Instead of using the OneDrive syncing feature, you can try another tool to sync files from SharePoint to OneDrive – MultCloud Cloud Sync.

MultCloud is a free cloud file transfer service and it supports multiple popular clouds, such as SharePoint Online, OneDrive, OneDrive for Business, Google Drive, Dropbox, and so on. Cloud Sync is one of MultCloud’s main functions, designed for automatic file syncing between clouds. It offers various sync modes, like Real Time Sync, Two-way Sync, Incremental Sync, Cumulative Sync, Mirror Sync, etc., to give you options to customize your sync task.

You can see the steps for using Cloud Sync to real-time sync SharePoint with OneDrive.

Step 1. Open the MultCloud website and click “Get started for free” to get a new account.

Step 2. Click “Add Cloud” and the cloud logo to add your SharePoint Online and OneDrive accounts to MultCloud.

Step 3. Select the “Cloud Sync” function in the left sidebar and choose SharePoint Online and OneDrive as the sync source and destination.

Step 4. Open “Options” and choose “Real Time Sync” and tap the “Sync Now” to start this sync task.

Conclusion

Whether you want to fix “OneDrive the source and destination files are the same” or “The source and destination file names are the same” issue, you can find some easy solutions in the post. Clarify your true issue and practice the fixes now!

Besides, if you want to try another way to sync SharePoint with OneDrive, MultCloud Cloud Sync can be chosen. It can automate the sync process and support real-time sync.