Fixing OneDrive Error 0x8007016A: The Cloud File Provider is Not Running
OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage service that helps you keep files safe and accessible across devices. But sometimes, when trying to use it, you may see the error:
“0x8007016A: The cloud file provider is not running.”
This error usually means some of your files are temporarily unavailable. It can stop you from moving, deleting, or syncing files, which can be frustrating. The good news is—it’s fixable.
Let’s break down why this happens and how you can solve it in simple steps.
Why Does This Error Happen?
Several things can trigger the “cloud file provider is not running” issue, including:
- A buggy or outdated Windows update
- OneDrive’s Files On-Demand feature causing conflicts
- Syncing being paused or disabled
- Corrupted or glitched OneDrive files
- Your computer running on power-saving mode
- Misconfigured OneDrive settings
Easy Fixes for OneDrive Error 0x8007016A
Here are some simple solutions you can try one by one. In most cases, one of these will get things back to normal.
1. Update Windows
Outdated or broken updates are a common cause.
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click Check for updates and install anything available
- Restart your computer
2. Turn Off Files On-Demand
Files On-Demand lets you see all your files without storing them locally, but sometimes it creates problems.
- Right-click the OneDrive icon in the taskbar
- Go to Settings > Files On-Demand
- Uncheck the option and restart your PC
3. Resume OneDrive Sync
If syncing is paused, OneDrive won’t work properly.
- Right-click the OneDrive icon
- Select More > Resume syncing
4. Change Your Power Plan
On laptops, power-saving mode can interrupt OneDrive.
- Press Windows + R, type
powercfg.cpl, and press Enter - Switch from Power Saver to Balanced or High Performance
- Restart your computer
5. Reset OneDrive
Resetting refreshes the app without deleting your data.
- Press Windows + R and paste:
%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset - Sign back into OneDrive when it reopens
6. Delete Problematic Files
Sometimes a single corrupted file blocks syncing.
- Open File Explorer and go to your OneDrive folder
- Create a new folder (e.g., “Temporary”)
- Move the problematic files there, then delete the folder
7. Reinstall OneDrive (Last Resort)
If nothing works, reinstalling can fix deeper issues.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features
- Find Microsoft OneDrive and uninstall it
- Download the latest version from Microsoft’s website and reinstall
Conclusion
The 0x8007016A OneDrive error is annoying, but usually not serious. Most of the time, a quick update, disabling Files On-Demand, or resuming sync will fix it. If not, try resetting or reinstalling OneDrive.
And if you still can’t solve it, contacting Microsoft support is always an option.
