Fix: OneDrive icon overlay is completely missing in Windows 10 8.1 7

Icon overlays, which are unique signs placed on top of regular folder icons, are used to provide additional information. The Lock icon, which indicates that the file requires special access permissions; the Small Arrow, which means that the icon can be used as a shortcut.

Sometimes overlay icons may not be available. OneDrive is the most vulnerable application to this problem. This can cause a lot of frustration for users as they are not aware of the current status of the files being synced. Windows 10 also limits the number of overlay icons that can be loaded in a session. It only allows 15

What can I do if the OneDrive icon overlay disappears?

It can be annoying if the overlay icons are missing. However, users often report these common issues:

• OneDrive sync is missing It is possible that commands OneDrive syncing may not work. It may also indicate a lack of updates. Microsoft recognizes this problem and suggests updating Windows 10 to fix it.
• OneDrive team doesn't have sync icon overlays Some users have reported missing sync icon overlays in OneDrive Personal. You may have exceeded the icon overlay limit. You can remove any other icons that are overlapping – using apps and this problem will go away.
• Cannot display OneDrive icons overlay Users are reporting that OneDrive overlay icons may be missing on their computer. You can fix this issue by changing your registry.

Solution 1: Uninstall unused programs

Windows only supports a limited number of icon overlays. This means that other applications (e.g. Dropbox) can use icon overlays to display files or folders. The Windows operating system only supports a limited number of icon overlays. Other applications that use icon overlays on files and folders (e.g. Dropbox) take priority.

You have many options to uninstall an application. However, it is best to use uninstaller software. Some applications leave files or registry entries that can cause problems on your computer.

Even for experienced users, manually removing registry entries and files is tedious. It is better to use software that does it automatically. These uninstallers are designed to remove all registry entries and files. They can also be used to remove any program from your system.

We recommend the software uninstaller if you are looking for IOBit Uninstaller Name: Revo Uninstaller These applications can be used to completely remove any application from your computer.

Solution 2: Remove the Temporary files and then run the SFC scan

1. OneDrive can create a folder called “recycle bin”

2. All temporary files should be removed from the folder » Temperature " and "% Temperature You can also add “%” in the “trash” folder. They can be deleted if you want.

You should run an SFC scan to check if the files are corrupted after deleting the temporary files. You can easily do so by following these steps.

1. For more information, click here Windows key + X OPEN The Win + X menu . Click here to select Symbol of the system (administrator). You can choose from the following list. Command Prompt may not be available PowerShell (Administrator). instead.

2. Run the command after Command Prompt has started SFC / scannow . The SFC scan will begin on your computer. The SFC scan may take up to 15 minutes, so do not interrupt it.

SFC scan is not enough. You may also need to run DISM scanner. Sometimes SFC scanner will fail to fix or run properly. If this happens, it is recommended to run DISM scanner. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Starts Command Prompt Administrator

2. Now you can enter DISM Online / Image Cleanup / Health Restoration en Command prompt Use the press Email It is possible to do it.

3. Now you can start the DISM scan. This process can take up to 20 minutes, so don't interrupt it.

Once the scan is complete, you can check if any issues persist. You may need to repeat the scan if the SFC scan was not possible before.

Solution 4 – Edit your registry

1. Type regedit Use the search box to find and then tap Email .

2. Right-click on the computer to backup the Windows registry Export .

3. Click here HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE_SOFTWARE_MicrosoftWindows_Current_Version_Explorer_ShellIconOverlayIdentifiers

4. You should remove unnamed folders and spaces from the beginning of folder names larger than those related to OneDrive. OneDrive file names can be pushed to the top by adding a space between them.

5. Turn the computer back on.

Solution 4 – Use ShellExView

OneDrive may have a limited number of icon overlays, so if the OneDrive icon overlay is missing that may be the problem. Windows limits the number of icon overlays it allows you to use. Windows may have exceeded its limit if OneDrive icon overlays are missing.

In this case, OneDrive icon overlays may stop working as other apps take priority over OneDrive. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that OneDrive will stop working. You'll still get a notification with an icon overlay, though it may not be as clear to you.

There is an alternative way to view apps with overlay icons. This can be done using a third-party app called ShellExView . It is free to download and can be used on any computer. Here are the steps to follow once you have installed the application.

1. Starts ShellExView .

2. Where? ShellExView open, go to, click, sort entries by Type Scroll down to find it Overlay Icon Handlers .

3. Now all overlay managers will be visible on your computer. Select the overlay manager you want to disable, and then click the red circle on the toolbar. Pay attention to the description section, to find out which application uses this manager.

The problem can be solved by disabling unused handlers. If you need to enable them, simply go back to the ShellEx View. Be careful, as this is a complex solution.

Solution 5 – Use the Microsoft troubleshooter

Microsoft is aware of this problem and can offer a solution. Microsoft offers an automatic solution to the problem that is quick and easy. Here is how you can use the tool:

1. .

2. Run the Troubleshooter once it has downloaded. Follow the instructions to complete it.

This simple solution should work fine for you.

Solution 6 – Make sure you are up to date

You can fix the icon overlapping issues by installing the latest updates. Microsoft has made it clear that they are aware of the issue, and the most likely fix will be found in the latest update.

By default, Windows 10 automatically downloads and installs missing updates. But sometimes you may miss an update due to some errors. You can still check for updates by following the steps below:

1. Click on Windows key + I Click here to start the application Settings .

2. Go to the section Security updates .

3. Just press the button Keep checking for new updates .

Windows now checks for updates. Updates will be downloaded automatically in the background if they are found. Windows will immediately install downloaded updates once your computer restarts.

Once you have installed all the necessary updates, your problem should be resolved permanently.

Solution 7 – Make a Boot cleansed

Third-party apps can sometimes interfere with Windows, which can cause OneDrive icons to overlap and not work. You may be able to fix the problem by doing a clean reset. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. For more information, click here Windows key + R Sign in msconfig . Press Email Or click here OK .

2. System settings Click here to go to the file Services View All hidden Microsoft services . Click on All can be disabled button.
   

3. Go to the Starts Click here Open Task Management .

4. You will see the Task Manager Click on the first entry in the list to see the full list of requests. Click on the first entry and choose “Select” Deactivate In the menu. This process must be repeated for each menu entry.
   

5. Close all startup applications after you have removed them The Task Manager Return to System settings . Click here Please request Name: You accept To save changes, restart your computer.

Check to see if your computer restarts. If the problem persists, disable each application and service until you find the problem. You can then remove the application and see if that fixes your problem.

Editor's note The original July 2016 publication of this post has been completely rewritten and updated to reflect the latest accuracy, completeness and freshness.

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