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

Updated Mar 25, 2026

In this article

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The information in this article applies to all Dropbox users.

This article explains how to troubleshoot issues with the Dropbox desktop app if:

  • The Dropbox desktop app unexpectedly quits or keeps crashing
  • Dropbox causes other apps to unexpectedly quit or crash
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Notes: 

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

 First, close all the apps on your computer and restart

Try closing all apps on your computer, then restart it. If you’re still experiencing issues after restarting, you may try momentarily disabling the other apps (such as firewall, security, or antivirus software). 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 using a beta or early access version, 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, make sure the Dropbox desktop app has 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.

Sync large numbers of files 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 the Dropbox app from the network drive, then reinstall it on a local drive (for example, C: drive). 

  Contact support

If the issue continues, contact Dropbox Support.

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