What to do if the Dropbox desktop app unexpectedly quits or is causing apps to crash

Updated Aug 07, 2024

This article applies to customers on all Dropbox plans.

This article helps you troubleshoot issues with the Dropbox desktop app if:

Dropbox unexpectedly quits or keeps crashing
Dropbox causes other applications to unexpectedly quit or crash

Notes:

If the Dropbox desktop app keeps quitting or crashing, you can still access the files and folders in your Dropbox account on dropbox.com.
If the Dropbox mobile app unexpectedly quits or keeps crashing, visit this article instead.
If you’re on a Dropbox team account, contact your admin.
Dropbox doesn’t support installation on network drives. Learn how to uninstall and reinstall on a local drive.

First, close all the applications on your computer and restart

Some applications (like firewall, security, or antivirus software) can cause the Dropbox desktop app to quit or crash. To fix the problem, first try closing all the applications on your computer, and then restart. If that doesn’t work, the following sections list some additional things you can try.

Make sure the Dropbox desktop app is up to date

Your device settings determine if you have to manually update your apps or if the apps update automatically. As required by your device, update the app to the latest version. If you determine that an app is no longer needed, uninstall it.

If you’re enrolled in a beta or early access version of the Dropbox desktop app, upgrade to the latest stable build of the Dropbox desktop app.

Uninstall and Reinstall the Dropbox desktop app

If you need to perform a manual update, uninstall and reinstall the Dropbox desktop app to ensure you’re using the latest version.

Check permissions in your firewall, security, or antivirus software

If you’re using firewall, security, or antivirus software, grant the Dropbox desktop app full permissions.

Make sure Dropbox supports your computer and operating system

To make the most of your Dropbox experience and features, ensure that Dropbox supports your device and operating system. Keep your operating system updated to the latest version. Learn more about Dropbox system requirements.

If you’re adding or syncing a large number files, add or sync them in batches

Use selective sync to sync fewer files to your computer or sync them in smaller batches. Learn more about file syncing limitations.

Make sure Dropbox isn’t installed on a network drive

Some customers experience crashes when the Dropbox desktop app for Windows is installed on a network drive, making it unusable. To resolve this issue, uninstall Dropbox app from the network drive, then reinstall it on a local drive (for example, C: drive).