We are aware of the issue with the badge emails resending to everyone, we apologise for the inconvenience - learn more here.

Forum Discussion

Fabio C.'s avatar
Fabio C.
New member | Level 2
3 days ago

How can I connect an existing Dropbox folder to my new Windows desktop app?

I've tried many time, but I just not able to sync my Dropbox Folder over a new Windows (and Dropbox) installation in my PC in a preexistent hard drive with my Dropbox Folder. 
So, I have to download, again, all my files for a hard drive that already has my Dropbox folder... Than, I have to deleted the previous synced folder.

Please, any help?

  • Thanks for posting on our forum, Fabio C.!

    To make sure I got it right, you’d like to connect your desktop app to your old Dropbox folder, so that it doesn’t re-download all your files from scratch. Correct?

    While signing in to the desktop app, and right before seeing the option to open your Dropbox folder, can you see an “Advanced Settings” link? If yes, please click there and choose the location of the old Dropbox folder on your computer. 

    To avoid any potential errors, you'll need to select the parent folder where the existing Dropbox folder currently resides. For example, if you have your Dropbox folder in the path "D:\OtherDrive\Folder\Dropbox" you'll want to select the folder "D:\OtherDrive\Folder".

    Let me know if that works for you, or if I’ve misunderstood something.

  • Nancy's avatar
    Nancy
    Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff

    Thanks for posting on our forum, Fabio C.!

    To make sure I got it right, you’d like to connect your desktop app to your old Dropbox folder, so that it doesn’t re-download all your files from scratch. Correct?

    While signing in to the desktop app, and right before seeing the option to open your Dropbox folder, can you see an “Advanced Settings” link? If yes, please click there and choose the location of the old Dropbox folder on your computer. 

    To avoid any potential errors, you'll need to select the parent folder where the existing Dropbox folder currently resides. For example, if you have your Dropbox folder in the path "D:\OtherDrive\Folder\Dropbox" you'll want to select the folder "D:\OtherDrive\Folder".

    Let me know if that works for you, or if I’ve misunderstood something.

    • Fabio C.'s avatar
      Fabio C.
      New member | Level 2

      In my PC I have two HD. One for files and other for programs. This one for programs, is new. A New Windows installation and, for sure I reinstall all necessary programs, included Dropbox. But, when I try install Dropbox I can't have a way to install and synchronize my already installed Dropbox files. Instead, the Dropbox program create a new Dropbox file to synchronize with the Dropbox cloud. Up to now I just couldn't install as I like.

      • Nancy's avatar
        Nancy
        Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff

        Fabio C., what do you see when following the steps I sent you previously? Can you send me a screenshot perhaps?

  • Fabio C.'s avatar
    Fabio C.
    New member | Level 2

    Thanks a lot. I have to tell you: The App doesn't have a good UX, but after your help, I've been in this bottle neck for months... ☹️ 

    Thanks again for your kindly attention.

    • Nancy's avatar
      Nancy
      Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff

      It was my pleasure, Fabio C., don’t mention it. If you need something else, I’ll be right here.

About Apps and Installations

Have a question about a Dropbox app or installation? Reach out to the Dropbox Community and get solutions, help, and advice from members.

Need more support

If you need more help you can view your support options (expected response time for an email or ticket is 24 hours), or contact us on X or Facebook.

For more info on available support options for your Dropbox plan, see this article.

If you found the answer to your question in this Community thread, please 'like' the post to say thanks and to let us know it was useful!