Quick Summary
The error 'iCloud Drive isn't turned on' indicates that iCloud Drive is disabled on your Mac, preventing files from syncing between your computer and iCloud. This issue can arise from various reasons, preventing seamless access to your documents, data, and backups.
Common Causes
- iCloud Drive is disabled: The most straightforward reason is that iCloud Drive has been manually disabled in System Settings.
- Outdated macOS version: Older macOS versions may have compatibility issues with newer iCloud features, leading to synchronization problems.
- iCloud account issues: Account-related problems, such as incorrect password, sign-in errors, or problems with Apple ID verification can lead to this message. A more severe issue can be with payment attached to your apple ID.
- Network connectivity issues: A poor or unstable Internet connection will make syncing to iCloud impossible. Ensure you have a reliable connection that can properly access iCloud services.
- Storage limits: If your iCloud storage is full, any new files or changes will fail to sync with iCloud, leading to errors like the one you're seeing.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Enable iCloud Drive in System Settings
Step 1: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
Step 2: Click on Apple ID and select iCloud. Sign in to iCloud if prompted.
Step 3: Ensure that iCloud Drive is toggled ON. If it's already on, try toggling it off and then back on.
Step 4: Check the box next to Desktop & Documents Folders if you want those to be synced to iCloud Drive.
Method 2: Update macOS to the Latest Version
Step 1: Navigate again to System Settings through Apple menu (or System Preferences).
Step 2: Click on General, then select Software Update.
Step 3: If an update is available, click Update Now and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Step 4: Once the update is installed, restart the computer and sign in to iCloud to attempt syncing again.
Method 3: Sign Out and Back in to iCloud
Step 1: Open System Settings or System Preferences.
Step 2: Click on Apple ID > iCloud, scroll to the bottom, and click Sign Out....
Step 3: Restart your Mac. Navigate to System Settings > Sign in with your Apple ID and enter your Apple ID credentials.
Step 4: Enable iCloud Drive in iCloud settings.
Method 4: Check Your Internet Connection
Step 1: Ensure your Mac is connected to the internet.
Step 2: Try opening a web page in a browser to confirm connectivity. If the page loaded successfully proceed otherwise, refer to your Internet Service Provider.
Step 3: If you are on Wi-Fi, ensure you are connected to the proper network. It's also worth testing your connection by switching to an Ethernet cable.
Method 5: Check iCloud Storage
Step 1: Open System Settings or System Preferences.
Step 2: Click on Apple ID > iCloud.
Step 3: At the top of the window, you'll see a bar graph indicating your iCloud storage usage. Ensure you have enough space. You may need to delete items or purchase additional storage.