The Meanings of Various Icons in Windows OneDrive

2026-06-04 05:56

The Microsoft OneDrive icons in desktop notification areas, menu bars, Windows File Explorer tell you the sync state of the file or folder.

	It means there are new messages about how best to use OneDrive, or to inform you about new or unused features. Select the OneDrive cloud icon to see any messages and actions to take.
	It means that a file or folder cannot be synced. You'll see this in File Explorer or on the OneDrive notification area icons. Click the blue or white OneDrive icon in the notification area to learn more about the problem.
	It means you're not signed in, or OneDrive setup hasn't completed. Press the Windows key, search for OneDrive and then open the OneDrive desktop app.
	It means your files are not currently syncing. To resume syncing, select the relevant OneDrive icon in the notification or menu bar area, select More and then Resume syncing.
	Sync is in progress. This includes when you are uploading files, or OneDrive is syncing new files from the cloud to your PC. Sync icons may also be seen online on OneDrive.com. OneDrive will also check for other file or folder changes and may show "Processing changes". If OneDrive shows "Processing changes" for a long time, it could be because you have an online file open, a very large file syncing, a lot of files stuck in a queue.
	It means your account is blocked.
	It means your account needs attention. Select the icon to see the warning message displayed in the activity center.
	It means your account needs attention. Select the icon to see the warning message displayed in the activity center.

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