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// troubleshooting guide · proton drive

Proton Drive Duplicate Files and 'Name Clash' Conflicts

Status
Ongoing
platforms:
Windows, macOS
updated:
November 15, 2026
reports:
3
Method
how we research
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RUNBOOK · proton-drive/duplicate-files-name-clash4 FIXES

// quick answer

Proton Drive creates conflict copies or 'Name clash' duplicates when the same file changes on two devices or a folder is re-linked, even if the files are identical. Let one device finish syncing first, keep the correct copy, and restore lost versions from version history or trash.

Most likely fix: Sync one device at a time

How to fix it

// try these in order, the most common fix is first

  1. FIX 1Sync one device at a time

    1. 01Let the first computer show fully synced before opening the files on another
    2. 02Close files on one device before editing on another
    Did this fix it?

  2. FIX 2Keep the right copy and delete duplicates

    1. 01Compare the original and the 'Name clash' copy (size and modified date)
    2. 02Keep the correct one and delete the other
    3. 03For many duplicates, search the folder for 'Name clash' and remove them in bulk
    Did this fix it?

  3. FIX 3Recover from trash or version history

    1. 01Open drive.proton.me and check Trash for files that disappeared
    2. 02Right-click a file and open its version history to restore an earlier version
    Did this fix it?

  4. FIX 4Don't re-link a full folder to an empty install

    1. 01On a new computer, start with an empty local folder and let it download first
    2. 02Then add new files
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

Files with 'Name clash' or conflict in the name, duplicate folders after reinstalling, deleted files reappearing, or a file synced on one laptop but gone on another.

Why it happens

  • C-01Editing the same file on two devices before sync finishes
  • C-02Re-linking or re-initializing a folder that already exists in the cloud
  • C-03Client not recognizing identical files already uploaded

// this guide also covers

  • proton drive name clash
  • proton drive duplicate files
  • proton drive sync conflict
  • proton drive files reappearing

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