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Summary
This article covers how to resolve the issue where OneDrive pauses file synchronization because the device’s active network connection is set as Metered (Windows) or Low Data Mode (macOS). This can prevent files from syncing, cause “Sync paused” warnings, or generate prompts to connect to a non‑metered network.
This is a common and expected behavior of OneDrive designed to reduce data usage on limited or costly networks (e.g., personal mobile hotspots).
Symptoms
Users may report one or more of the following:
- OneDrive client shows “Sync paused” or “Your files are not syncing”
- Files do not upload or download
- Warnings such as “Connect to a non‑metered network to resume syncing”
- Sync behavior fluctuates depending on location or Wi‑Fi network
- Occurs even though the user is connected to a normal campus or office network
Cause
Windows and macOS allow networks to be designated as metered or low data mode to save bandwidth. When this mode is active, OneDrive automatically pauses sync operations to avoid large data consumption.
This commonly occurs when:
- A user accidentally toggles “metered connection” on
- A connection has been automatically flagged as metered by the OS
- A mobile hotspot was previously used and the setting persisted
- A VPN client forces the connection into a low‑bandwidth or metered state
Resolution – Windows (10 & 11)
Step 1 – Open Network Settings
- Open Settings.
- Select Network & Internet.
Step 2 – Check the Active Connection
- Select Wi‑Fi or Ethernet, depending on what the user is currently using.
- Click the name of the active network.
Step 3 – Disable Metered Mode
- Scroll to the Metered connection section.
- Toggle Set as metered connection → Off.
Step 4 – Restart OneDrive
- Right‑click the OneDrive icon in the system tray.
- Select Quit OneDrive.
- Reopen OneDrive from the Start menu.
Resolution – macOS (Ventura and Later)
Step 1 – Open Network Settings
- Open System Settings.
- Select Network.
Step 2 – Disable Low Data Mode
- Click the active network (Wi‑Fi or Ethernet).
- Turn Low Data Mode → Off.
Step 3 – Restart OneDrive
- Select the OneDrive icon from the menu bar.
- Choose Quit OneDrive.
- Reopen OneDrive from Applications.
How to Verify the Fix
A technician should confirm:
- OneDrive icon returns to normal (“blue syncing arrows” or “green checkmark”)
- The banner “Sync paused” disappears
- Files begin syncing normally
- OneDrive client shows Up to date
- No additional data‑usage warnings appear
If verification fails, see the escalation section below.
Notes and Common Edge Cases
- Laptop users who switch between home Wi‑Fi, hotspots, and campus networks may re‑encounter this issue.
- Some corporate VPNs flag all traffic as metered or limited.
- Low‑battery “power saver” modes can also pause OneDrive sync (Windows).
- Files On‑Demand does not cause sync pausing but may be confused with it.
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