Fix “Sorry, we can’t sync this folder, You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library.” Error in OneDrive

Problem: When trying to sync a SharePoint Online folder by clicking on the “Sync” button in the library toolbar, I got this error message:

Sorry, we can’t sync this folder, You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library.

sorry, we can't sync this folder

Solution:

Root cause: Apparently, this error indicates the particular SharePoint Folder or library is already under the OneDrive sync (or under any other folder already in sync)! So, to avoid double sync, the Microsoft OneDrive client displays this error message popup.

Solution: To resolve the issue, Login to the OneDrive (https://<<YourDomain>>-my.sharepoint.com) site and remove the Shortcut. Alternatively, you can Click on App launcher in the upper-left corner >> OneDrive >> My Files >> Delete the “chained” folder shortcut.

You can also leave the shortcut in OneDrive and access the Files from your OneDrive folder in File Explorer instead of establishing a new sync.

remove shortcut from onedrive

This error may happen when there is some sync operation in progress as part of existing sync addition/removal. If the above solution doesn’t work, try unlinking your account from OneDrive (Log out from the OneDrive sync client), restart your PC, and then link it to a new folder to re-establish the sync.

Salaudeen Rajack

Salaudeen Rajack - SharePoint Expert with Two decades of SharePoint Experience. Love to Share my knowledge and experience with the SharePoint community, through real-time articles!

3 thoughts on “Fix “Sorry, we can’t sync this folder, You’re already syncing a shortcut to a folder from this shared library.” Error in OneDrive

  • Fixed my problem. Thank you!

    Reply
  • What if you can’t find the shortcut? Because I have this problem, removed several shortcuts, but there are more that I can’t find!

    Reply
    • Any existing folder/subfolder that are added using “Add shortcut to OneDrive” must be removed from OneDrive and ensure the OneDrive sync client is done with these sync changes. If any sync operation such as removal of folders from OneDrive sync in progress – Wait till its completed.

      Reply

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