How to Update OneDrive on Mac?
Last updated
Last updated
OneDrive is a popular cloud storage service provided by Microsoft, enabling users to store and access files from any device connected to the internet. For Mac users, OneDrive provides an easy way to back up documents, photos, videos, and more, with the convenience of syncing files across multiple devices. To ensure that OneDrive continues to run smoothly and takes advantage of the latest features, bug fixes, and security improvements, it’s essential to keep the application up-to-date.
In this guide, we will take you step-by-step through the process of updating OneDrive on macOS. We’ll discuss the automatic update process, how to check for manual updates, how to troubleshoot potential issues, and much more. By the end of this guide, you'll be confident in your ability to keep OneDrive up-to-date on your Mac.
Before diving into the update process, let’s understand why updating OneDrive is crucial:
New Features: Microsoft frequently rolls out new features to OneDrive, such as improved file sharing options, real-time collaboration, and enhanced search functionality. Keeping OneDrive updated ensures you have access to the latest tools and improvements.
Bug Fixes: Like any software, OneDrive may experience bugs that hinder its performance. Updates address these issues, allowing the app to run smoothly without interruptions or errors.
Security Updates: Regular updates ensure that OneDrive is protected against the latest security threats, such as hacking attempts and data breaches. These updates are crucial for keeping your files and information safe.
Performance Enhancements: Updates to OneDrive often include optimizations that make the application run more efficiently, especially when syncing large files or dealing with a high volume of data.
Compatibility: As macOS gets updated, OneDrive may require updates to maintain compatibility with the latest version of macOS. Installing the latest version of OneDrive ensures that you’re not missing out on crucial fixes that allow the app to function well with your operating system.
OneDrive typically updates automatically on macOS, as long as you have configured the Mac App Store to update apps automatically. By default, macOS is designed to manage app updates automatically, but it’s important to verify that the settings are correct to ensure you receive timely updates for OneDrive.
Enable Automatic Updates for Apps on macOS
Open System Preferences:
On your Mac, click on the Apple Menu in the top-left corner of the screen, and select System Preferences from the drop-down menu.
Access App Store Preferences:
In the System Preferences window, click on App Store. This will open a new window where you can control your App Store settings, including automatic updates.
Enable Automatic Updates:
In the App Store settings, check the box labeled Automatically check for updates.
Additionally, make sure the Download newly available updates in the background box is checked to ensure that apps like OneDrive are automatically updated in the background.
With these settings enabled, OneDrive should automatically update when a new version is available, and you won’t need to worry about manually checking for updates. However, if for any reason automatic updates are not working or if you prefer to manually update OneDrive, you can follow the steps below.
If OneDrive doesn’t update automatically or if you want to ensure that you’re using the latest version, you can manually check for updates via the Mac App Store.
Steps to Check for OneDrive Updates in the Mac App Store:
Open the Mac App Store:
On your Mac, click the App Store icon in the Dock or go to Applications and open the App Store manually.
Go to the Updates Section:
In the App Store window, click on the Updates tab located in the sidebar on the left. This will show you all the apps that have updates available, including OneDrive.
Find OneDrive in the Updates List:
Scroll through the list of available updates. If a OneDrive update is available, you will see it listed here.
Update OneDrive:
If OneDrive is listed in the Updates section, click the Update button next to it. This will start the download and installation of the latest version of OneDrive.
Wait for the Update to Finish:
The update will automatically download and install. Depending on your internet connection speed, this may take a few moments. Once the update is installed, OneDrive will be updated to the latest version, and you can start using the new features or improvements.
If OneDrive Is Not Listed in Updates
If you don’t see OneDrive listed in the Updates section, it could be because the app is already up-to-date. However, if you still suspect that an update is required, you can visit the OneDrive page on the Mac App Store and check for the latest version.
If manual updates don’t seem to work or if you're experiencing issues with the app, you might consider reinstalling OneDrive. Reinstalling OneDrive ensures that you get the latest version without any corrupted files or previous settings interfering with the update.
Here’s how to reinstall OneDrive on your Mac:
Uninstall OneDrive:
Open Finder on your Mac and navigate to the Applications folder.
Find OneDrive in the Applications folder.
Drag the OneDrive icon to the Trash or right-click on it and select Move to Trash.
Once the app is moved to the Trash, empty the Trash to complete the uninstallation process.
Reinstall OneDrive:
Open the Mac App Store and search for OneDrive.
Once you find OneDrive, click the Install button to download and reinstall the app.
After the app is installed, you can sign in using your Microsoft account and begin using OneDrive again.
After updating OneDrive, it's helpful to check the version number to ensure that you are using the latest release.
Open OneDrive:
Launch the OneDrive application on your Mac by clicking the OneDrive icon in the Applications folder or the Launchpad.
Go to OneDrive Preferences:
In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on the OneDrive icon.
In the drop-down menu, click on Preferences.
Check the Version:
In the Preferences window, go to the About tab.
Under the About section, you will see the current version of OneDrive installed on your Mac. Make sure that the version number matches the latest release, which can be found on Microsoft’s official website or in the App Store.
If you encounter problems when updating OneDrive on your Mac, here are a few troubleshooting tips that may help resolve the issue:
Check Your Internet Connection:
OneDrive requires a stable internet connection to download and install updates. Ensure your Mac is connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet and that the connection is stable.
Force Quit and Relaunch OneDrive:
Sometimes, OneDrive may encounter glitches during the update process. Force quit the app and relaunch it by pressing Command + Option + Esc, selecting OneDrive, and clicking Force Quit. Afterward, try updating OneDrive again.
Clear Cache and Reset OneDrive:
If OneDrive still won’t update or is acting strangely after updating, you can try clearing the app’s cache and resetting it. This can resolve sync issues or other unexpected behavior.
Open Finder, press Shift + Command + G, and go to the folder ~/Library/Application Support/OneDrive. Delete the contents of this folder and restart OneDrive.
Ensure Sufficient Disk Space:
Make sure you have enough disk space on your Mac to accommodate the update. If your system storage is full, OneDrive may not be able to complete the update process. You can check available space in System Preferences > Storage.
Updating OneDrive on Mac is a relatively simple process, and it’s essential for ensuring the app runs smoothly with the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to keep OneDrive up-to-date either through automatic or manual updates. If issues arise, troubleshooting steps such as reinstalling the app or checking your internet connection can help resolve any problems.