Start OneDrive Automatically When Users Sign In to Windows Using Intune
Keeping OneDrive running automatically when users sign in ensures files stay synced and ready without manual steps. In Microsoft Intune, you can easily deploy this setting across all managed Windows 10 or Windows 11 devices.
This guide explains how to configure Intune to start OneDrive automatically at sign-in, verify deployment, and troubleshoot common issues.
Why Enable OneDrive Auto-Start
If OneDrive doesn’t start automatically, users might forget to launch it — which means files won’t sync. By enabling this policy, you can:
- Ensure seamless synchronization for work or school accounts.
- Minimize helpdesk tickets about missing or outdated files.
- Standardize OneDrive behavior across your managed fleet.
Step 1 – Create a Configuration Profile in Intune
- Sign in to the Microsoft Intune admin center.
- Go to Devices → Configuration profiles → Create profile.
- Choose:
- Platform: Windows 10 and later
- Profile type: Settings catalog
- Select Create to open the configuration editor.
Step 2 – Add the OneDrive Setting
- In Settings picker, search for OneDrive.
- Select Start OneDrive automatically when signing in to Windows (User).
- Set the option to Enabled.
- Click Next to continue.
Step 3 – Assign the Policy
- Under Assignments, select the groups you want this policy to apply to.
- For example, choose “All Users” or a specific department group.
- Review your settings and select Create.
The policy will now deploy to targeted users. Once applied, OneDrive will start automatically at the next sign-in.
Step 4 – Verify Deployment Status
You can monitor deployment from the Intune portal:
- Go to Devices → Configuration profiles → Your Profile → Device status.
- Check that the status shows “Succeeded” for targeted users.
If some devices show “Pending” or “Error,” wait for a few sync cycles or review the logs.
Step 5 – Check on the Client Side
On Windows devices, confirm the policy has applied:
- Open Event Viewer →
Applications and Services Logs → Microsoft → Windows → Device Management Enterprise Diagnostic Provider.
Look for event IDs 813 or 814, which confirm successful policy application.
Troubleshooting Tips
If OneDrive doesn’t start automatically:
- Ensure the OneDrive sync client is installed and updated.
- Verify there are no conflicting GPOs or registry settings.
- Restart the device or sign out/in to refresh policy enforcement.
- Confirm the user is within the assigned group and the device is Intune-managed.
Pro Tip for Admins
When using shared or kiosk devices, consider assigning this policy to device groups rather than user groups. This ensures every user session on the device triggers OneDrive auto-start.
Also, keep OneDrive updated using the Intune app deployment feature or Winget to prevent version mismatches.
Summary
Configuring Intune to start OneDrive automatically helps maintain consistent user experience and reliable data sync. It’s a small but effective policy that reduces support issues and boosts productivity across your organization.
By following the steps above, your users will always have OneDrive ready to go the moment they sign in.
