Facing the ‘Couldn’t Start Files on Demand’ error on OneDrive can be quite a hassle when you’re trying to access your files on Windows. This problem prevents OneDrive from downloading files to your device as needed, which can disrupt workflow and reduce productivity. In this article, we will explore the top 8 fixes that can help you resolve this error and get back to your files as quickly as possible.

1. Check Internet Connection

Before diving into more complex solutions, ensure that your device is connected to a stable internet connection. A weak or intermittent connection could be the root cause of the issue.

2. Restart OneDrive

Simple glitches can often be fixed by restarting the application. To do this, right-click the OneDrive icon in the notification area, click “Quit OneDrive”, and start it again through the Start menu.

3. Update OneDrive

If you’re running an outdated version of OneDrive, updating it could resolve the error. You can update the application through the Microsoft Store or OneDrive website.

4. Run OneDrive Troubleshooter

Windows offers a built-in troubleshooter for fixing common OneDrive issues. Access it by going to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Find and fix other problems > OneDrive.

5. Disable and Re-Enable Files On-Demand

Go to OneDrive settings by clicking on its icon in the notification area, then navigate to Settings > Settings tab. Uncheck “Save space and download files as you use them” and then re-enable it after a minute.

6. Reset OneDrive

To reset OneDrive, press Windows key + R, type `%localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset`, and press Enter. This will reset the app’s settings and potentially fix any errors.

7. Check Windows Updates

Make sure that your Windows operating system is up-to-date, as compatibility issues might cause errors with OneDrive Files On-Demand.

8. Reinstall OneDrive

As a last resort, uninstalling and reinstalling OneDrive can help eliminate deeper issues with the software installation that may be causing the error.

Applying these steps should help resolve the ‘Couldn’t Start Files on Demand’ error on OneDrive for most users. If you continue experiencing problems after trying these solutions, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.