How to Fix OneNote Not Syncing on Windows PC

Menzi Sumile

OneNote is a powerful note-taking app that many rely on to manage personal and professional tasks. However, one everyday issue users face is that OneNote needs to be synced to sync correctly. Syncing is crucial for keeping your notes updated across all devices, so when it fails, it can cause frustration and potential data loss.

We will explain why OneNote may not be syncing on your Windows PC and provide practical steps to fix the issue.

Reasons Why It’s Happening

Syncing issues in OneNote can occur due to several reasons. Understanding the root causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Here are some common reasons why OneNote may not sync:

  • Internet Connection Problems: OneNote relies on a stable internet connection to sync your notes. If your connection is unstable or drops frequently, syncing might fail.
  • Outdated Version of OneNote: An outdated software version can introduce bugs or compatibility issues that may disrupt syncing.
  • Storage Limits: If your OneDrive or local storage is full, OneNote might fail to sync new notes because it can’t scan or upload them.
  • Corrupted Cache: A corrupted cache or excessive cache data can prevent OneNote from syncing correctly, leading to incomplete updates or missing notes.
  • Sign-in Errors: Sometimes, being signed out of your Microsoft account or having issues with account authentication can stop OneNote from syncing your data across devices.

5 Ways to Fix OneNote Not Syncing on Windows PC

Now that we understand why OneNote syncing issues may occur, let’s learn how to resolve them. Before troubleshooting, remember that maintaining proper sync is crucial for real-time updates and collaborative work. These steps will ensure your notes stay updated and accessible across all devices.

Check Your Internet Connection

OneNote requires a reliable internet connection to sync correctly. If your connection is weak or unstable, it may fail to sync. Begin by checking if other apps or websites are loading correctly. Restart your router or switch to a more stable network if your internet connection seems slow or erratic.

Update OneNote

An outdated version of OneNote can cause syncing problems due to compatibility or bug-related issues. Ensure you’re on the latest Version by checking for updates in the Microsoft Store or the app. Updating your software ensures you benefit from the latest bug fixes and improvements that enhance syncing capabilities.

microsoft store to updat onenote: OneNote Not Syncing on Windows PC
  • Steps to Update OneNote:
    • Open the Microsoft Store.
    • Click on Library and check for OneNote updates.
    • If available, click Update and restart OneNote once updated.

Free Up Storage Space

Storage issues can directly impact OneNote syncing. New notes won’t sync appropriately if your OneDrive or local disk is full. Clear some space by deleting unnecessary files from OneDrive and your device’s storage to ensure OneNote can save and sync your notes seamlessly.

  • How to Check and Free Up Space:
    • Open OneDrive and check available storage.
    • Delete or move large files if you’re near the limit.
    • Free up local storage by deleting unneeded files or using a cleaning tool like Disk Cleanup.

Clear OneNote Cache

OneNote saves cached data on your PC to load notes faster, but this cache can become corrupted or overly full, causing syncing issues. Clearing the cache is necessary to remove corrupt files and allow OneNote to download fresh copies of your notes from the server.

Doing this will refresh the syncing process and fix any errors caused by damaged cache data.

  • Steps to Clear OneNote Cache:
    • Close OneNote.
    • Navigate to C:\Users\[Your Name]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\OneNote\[Version] and delete the Cache folder.
    • Reopen OneNote and allow it to sync your notebooks again.

You can utilize a third-party PC repair tool like Fortect to automatically fix corrupted cache issues that might be preventing OneNote from syncing on your Windows PC.

Fortect Premium addresses registry errors, replaces damaged system files with new copies, and eliminates unnecessary junk files. It comprehensively scans your system to identify performance problems and corrupted files, especially those affecting OneNote, and repairs them to restore optimal functionality.

Download and install Fortect now.

Re-sign into Your Microsoft Account

Authentication issues can occur if OneNote loses its connection to your Microsoft account. Signing out and then signing back in can refresh the connection and fix any problems related to syncing.

  • How to Sign Out and Back In:
    • Open OneNote and click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
    • Select Sign out, then close the app.
    • Reopen OneNote, click on Sign in, and log back into your Microsoft account.

Conclusion

Syncing issues in OneNote can be frustrating but often fixable with simple troubleshooting steps. Whether checking your internet connection, clearing cache, or updating the software, following these methods will help restore OneNoteOneNote’sg functionality on your Windows PC.

Staying proactive with updates and managing storage will prevent future syncing problems and keep your notes readily available across all devices.

This Article Covers:
Was this article helpful?
About the author
Menzi Sumile
About the author | Menzi Sumile
On-page SEO, Proofreader, and Content/SEO Writer located in the Philippines, with over four years of experience in Blog Content Management and On-page SEO.

These also might be interesting for you

Computer Slow After Sleep: 8 Simple Fixes
How to Fix Windows 10 Not Recognizing External Hard Drives
How to Fix Group Policy Client Service Failed the Logon