Are you seeing the OneDrive error 0x8007016A: “The cloud file provider is not running” when trying to access your files? You’re not alone—this frustrating issue is fairly common among Windows 10 and Windows 11 users, especially when syncing files with Microsoft OneDrive. The error typically occurs when the system fails to properly communicate with the cloud file provider, which can result from various underlying issues, such as corrupted sync settings, outdated software, or disabled background services.
Fortunately, fixing the OneDrive 0x8007016A error is easier than you might think. Whether you’re using OneDrive for personal file storage or as part of your Microsoft 365 workspace, several proven troubleshooting steps can help restore normal functionality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most effective methods to resolve the “cloud file provider is not running” message, so you can quickly regain access to your cloud-based documents without losing productivity.
What Causes the OneDrive Error Code 0x8007016A?
The OneDrive error 0x8007016A, often accompanied by the message “The cloud file provider is not running,” is a common issue that disrupts file syncing and cloud access on Windows 10 and Windows 11. This error can be triggered by a variety of system-level conflicts and misconfigurations. Understanding the root causes is key to implementing an effective fix.
Some of the most frequently reported causes include:
- Corrupt Windows Updates – A known culprit is the KB4457128 update for Windows 10, which has been linked to OneDrive sync issues. If your folders stopped syncing after an update, this may be the reason.
- Files On-Demand Feature Conflicts – While Files On-Demand helps save local storage, it can sometimes interfere with OneDrive’s ability to load files, leading to the 0x8007016A error. Temporarily disabling this feature may resolve the issue.
- Disabled OneDrive Syncing – In some cases, sync functionality is unintentionally disabled due to third-party software conflicts or user settings. Re-enabling OneDrive sync through its settings may help restore normal operation.
- Power Plan Restrictions – On laptops, using a power-saving mode can restrict background sync services. Switching to a Balanced or High Performance power plan can help fix OneDrive sync issues.
- Corrupted OneDrive Files – If specific files in your OneDrive folder are corrupted, they may trigger sync errors like 0x8007016A. Scanning for and removing these files may eliminate the problem.
How to Fix OneDrive Error 0x8007016A
If you’re encountering the “0x8007016A: The cloud file provider is not running” message, follow these steps to resolve it efficiently:
1. Install the Latest Windows Updates
The first step in fixing this issue is to ensure your Windows operating system is fully updated. Outdated or corrupted updates, such as KB4457128, have been known to cause OneDrive issues. Here’s how to update your Windows:
- Click the Start menu and select Settings (or press Windows + I).
- Navigate to Update & Security and ensure you’re on the Windows Update tab.
- Click Check for updates then wait for Windows to scan for available patches.
- If updates are available, select Install, including any optional updates, to ensure full compatibility.
2. Create a New OneDrive Folder to Resolve Error 0x8007016A.
If you’re encountering the OneDrive error code 0x8007016A: The cloud file provider is not running, one effective workaround is to create a new folder and move the problematic files into it. This method helps because newly created folders aren’t synced to OneDrive immediately, which temporarily removes sync-related issues and allows you to manage your files offline.
To try this solution, follow these steps:
- Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E.
- Navigate to your main OneDrive folder.
- Right-click on an empty space and select New > Folder. Name it something like “Temporary.”
- Move the files triggering the error into this new folder by dragging and dropping them.
- Once transferred, right-click the “Temporary” folder and select Delete from the context menu.
This method has helped many users fix the 0x8007016A OneDrive sync error, especially when dealing with corrupted or unsynced files.
3. Disable OneDrive Files On-Demand Feature
Another proven fix for the OneDrive error 0x8007016A is disabling the Files On-Demand feature. While Files On-Demand is designed to save storage space by letting you access cloud files without downloading them, it can sometimes interfere with syncing—leading to the cloud file provider error.
Here’s how to turn it off:
Toggle the feature Off, then restart OneDrive to apply the change.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
3. Run the following command to launch “OneDrive” in personal mode:
start %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\OneDrive\OneDrive.exe /client=Personal
4. In the OneDrive panel, click the gear icon in the top-right corner and select Settings.
5. Scroll to Advanced Settings and locate the Files On-Demand option.
4. Enable Syncing in OneDrive to Resolve Error 0x8007016A
If you’re seeing the OneDrive error 0x8007016A: The cloud file provider is not running, it could indicate that OneDrive syncing is turned off. Fortunately, you can quickly fix this by enabling syncing in OneDrive’s settings:
- Open the Start menu on your taskbar, and then type “OneDrive” in the search bar and click on the OneDrive application in the search results.
- Allow OneDrive to boot up. This will automatically start syncing your files, which could resolve the syncing issue and eliminate the error message you’re encountering.
Enabling syncing can be a simple yet effective solution to the 0x8007016A OneDrive error, restoring proper file synchronization between your device and the cloud.
5. Change Your Power Plan to Fix Error 0x8007016A on OneDrive
For laptop users, the 0x8007016A error may occur due to power plan restrictions. If you’re using a power-saving plan, it can limit OneDrive’s syncing capabilities. To fix this, switch to a balanced or high-performance power plan. Here’s how to do it on your Windows device:
- Click on the Start menu and type (Control Panel) in the search bar.
- In the Control Panel, set your viewing mode to Large icons and select Power Options.
- Choose the Balanced (recommended) power plan, or from the Additional plans dropdown, select High performance based on your needs.
Switching to a more robust power plan may help resolve the OneDrive syncing error and improve overall performance on your laptop.
6. Reset OneDrive to Fix Error 0x8007016A
If the previous solutions haven’t resolved the 0x8007016A error, you can try resetting OneDrive. Resetting the application can help fix any underlying issues and restore proper syncing. Here’s how to reset OneDrive on Windows 10:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Navigate to the Processes tab and locate Microsoft OneDrive in the list.
- Right-click on Microsoft OneDrive and select End task.
- Once the application is closed, open OneDrive again and let it sync your files.
Resetting OneDrive can resolve the “cloud file provider is not running” error, especially if it’s related to an internal software glitch.
7. Reinstall OneDrive as a Last Resort
If none of the above solutions have fixed the 0x8007016A error, you can reinstall OneDrive as a last resort. Reinstalling the application ensures that any corrupted files or misconfigurations are cleared. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Start menu and type (Control Panel) in the search bar.
- Set your view mode to Large icons then click on Programs and Features.
- Locate Microsoft OneDrive from the list, click on it, and then select Uninstall.
- Once OneDrive is removed, visit Microsoft’s official website to download and reinstall the latest version.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account and allow OneDrive to sync your files.
Reinstalling OneDrive should fix any persistent errors and restore full functionality to your cloud storage.
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve provided the most effective solutions for fixing the OneDrive error 0x8007016A. Whether enabling syncing, adjusting your power plan, resetting OneDrive, or reinstalling the application, these steps should help resolve the issue. If none of these fixes work, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support for further assistance.
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