iCloud Slow Syncing - Documents and Desktop

Hi,


I've recently started using iCloud to sync my Documents Folder and Desktop across my MacBook Air and Mac Mini (both computers are under 2 years old, running Ventura and signed into the same Apple ID). Additionally my internet connection on both computers is solid and fast at 200 mbps+.


Sometimes items placed in the Documents Folder and Desktop sync almost immediately across both computers. Other times, for example, the desktop sits unsynced for hours - I have tested this, just watching the two desktops during the day while I work. They will eventually sync if I restart the computer that was not syncing, but this can't be the ongoing solution, right? It just gives me an uneasy feeling of what might I be missing that is not syncing.


Any thoughts? Thanks,


Brian

MacBook Air Apple Silicon

Posted on Feb 14, 2023 06:21 PM

Reply
3 replies

Feb 16, 2023 12:30 PM in response to Henderson_86

Thanks for taking the time to respond to my issue. As mentioned in my original post, I have checked that my internet connection is stable. I've done periodic speed checks throughout the day which shows a consistent connection of 200 mbps on both computers. I also am working all day, so I know the internet is not dropping out.


However, as indicated in my original post, giving the benefit of the doubt (i.e., that it just needs time...), after an entire day, certain files on my desktop just do not update across computers, while others do perfectly. And the ones that don't update are under 1 MB in size (test files).

Feb 15, 2023 06:12 PM in response to Brian999999

Hi Brian999999,


We'd like to help you find the best solution path for your updates to iCloud Drive. Looking over Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support this mentions "Your files upload to iCloud each time your device connects to the internet. Depending on your internet speed, the time it takes for you to see your files on your other devices might vary.", and with that being mentioned you can focus towards the network. For the network, we would recommend the settings via Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points - Apple Support which will ensure your settings match the recommendations to help offer a solution. If you go through this with the same result, we would suggest contacting Apple Support.


Thanks for using Apple Support Communities.



Feb 16, 2023 12:50 PM in response to Brian999999

Hey there Brian999999,


Do you notice that the files that are affected seem to be a larger than the files that are working? If you haven’t already, test this out in both safe mode and a new user account. This could resolve the issue and help us understand if this is related to certain software or settings on your user account. You can read how to do this here:


Start up your Mac in safe mode


Add a user or group on Mac


Get back to us with the results.


Take care.

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iCloud Slow Syncing - Documents and Desktop

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