Step 1c: NinjaTrader and OneDrive
OneDrive is not supported by NinjaTrader and can cause many issues. If you open NinjaTrader and the QuantVue tools are not present, it is likely a directory issue cause by OneDrive. NinjaTrader's official stance on this matter is to unlink and remove OneDrive, then performing a clean installation of NinjaTrader. Step by step instructions are as follows.
NinjaTrader 8: OneDrive Removal and Complete Reinstallation Guide
⚠️ DISCLAIMER
READ BEFORE PROCEEDING:
This guide involves modifying system files, uninstalling software, and changing backup configurations. While these instructions are based on official NinjaTrader support guidance, QuantVue and its representatives are not responsible for any data loss, system issues, or unintended consequences that may result from following these instructions.
Before proceeding:
Ensure you have a complete backup of all important files and data
Verify you have administrative access to your computer
If you are uncomfortable performing these steps, consult with a qualified IT professional
QuantVue is not affiliated with Microsoft and cannot provide technical support for Windows or PC-related issues
These instructions are provided "as-is" without warranty of any kind
By following this guide, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk.
Part 1: Unlinking OneDrive and Preserving Your Data
Step 1: Stop OneDrive Backup
Close NinjaTrader completely - Ensure the application is not running
Locate the OneDrive icon (cloud symbol) in your Windows system tray (bottom-right corner near the clock)
Right-click the OneDrive icon and select Settings
Navigate to the Backup tab
Under the Documents folder section, click Stop backup
Step 2: Rename Your Existing NinjaTrader Folder
Open your Documents folder
Locate and click the "Where are my files" icon
Right-click this icon and select Open in new window
In the OneDrive window that opens, locate the NinjaTrader 8 folder
Right-click the NinjaTrader 8 folder and select Rename
Rename it to "NinjaTrader 8 OLD"
DO NOT DELETE THIS FOLDER - It contains your settings and custom files
Leave this folder in the OneDrive location for now
Part 2: Complete Uninstallation of NinjaTrader 8
Step 1: Uninstall NinjaTrader from Windows
Click the Windows Start button
Type "Control Panel" in the search field
Open Control Panel
Select Programs > Programs and Features
Scroll down and locate NinjaTrader 8 in the list
Right-click NinjaTrader 8 and select Uninstall
Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation
Step 2: Delete Program Files
Open File Explorer
Navigate to C:\Program Files
If you see a NinjaTrader 8 folder, delete it
If the folder doesn't exist, proceed to the next step
Step 3: Reboot Your Computer
Restart your PC to ensure all processes are terminated
Wait for the computer to fully restart before proceeding
Part 3: Fresh Installation of NinjaTrader 8
Step 1: Download NinjaTrader
Open your web browser
Go to https://account.ninjatrader.com
Log in with your NinjaTrader credentials
Click the Download button in the bottom-left corner of the sidebar
On the Desktop Application Download page, click the Download button again
Wait for the installation file to download
Step 2: Install NinjaTrader
Close all running applications before starting installation
Locate the downloaded installation file (usually in your Downloads folder)
Double-click the installation file to run it
Follow the installation prompts
Accept the license agreement and complete the installation
The installer will automatically create a new NinjaTrader 8 folder in your local Documents folder (C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\NinjaTrader 8)
Step 3: First Launch
Launch NinjaTrader 8 from your desktop or Start menu
Log in with your credentials
Connect to your data feed
Open a chart to verify everything is loading properly
Part 4: Restoring Your Custom Settings (Optional)
If the fresh installation is working correctly and you want to restore your previous workspaces, templates, and custom scripts:
Step 1: Locate Both Folders
Close NinjaTrader completely
Open File Explorer and navigate to your local Documents folder (C:\Users[YourUsername]\Documents)
Open the NinjaTrader 8 folder (the new installation)
Open a second File Explorer window (right-click Documents folder and select Open in new window)
In the second window, navigate to your OneDrive Documents location
Open the NinjaTrader 8 OLD folder
Tip: Position the two windows side-by-side to make copying easier.
Step 2: Copy Old Custom Files
From the NinjaTrader 8 OLD folder (in OneDrive location), copy the following folders:
workspaces
templates
bin
Paste these folders into the new NinjaTrader 8 folder (in local Documents)
When prompted, choose "Replace the files in the destination" to overwrite the default folders
Step 3: Test
Launch NinjaTrader
Verify your custom workspaces, templates, and indicators are present
Test functionality to ensure everything works properly
Important Note: If problems return after restoring your old files, the issue may be caused by corrupt workspaces or custom scripts. In that case, use the fresh installation without importing old files, or selectively import only specific items you need.
Troubleshooting Tips
If NinjaTrader Won't Open:
Restart your PC to end any active processes using NinjaTrader files
Ensure OneDrive backup is completely stopped for the Documents folder
Firewall/Antivirus Issues:
Add NinjaTrader as an exception in Windows Firewall
Add NinjaTrader as an exception in your antivirus software
Disable Controlled Folder Access:
Press the Windows Key
Search for "Controlled Folder Access"
Turn it off if enabled
Windows Updates:
Before using NinjaTrader, ensure all Windows updates are installed:
Go to Settings > Update & Security
Click Check for updates
Install all available updates
Reboot if required
Summary Checklist
Understanding the File Locations
After completing this process, you will have:
C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\NinjaTrader 8 - Your new, clean installation (active)
OneDrive\Documents\NinjaTrader 8 OLD - Your backup with old settings (inactive, for reference only)
The new installation will use the local Documents folder and will NOT be backed up by OneDrive, preventing future file access conflicts.
Support Resources
NinjaTrader Account Dashboard: https://account.ninjatrader.com
Microsoft Controlled Folder Access Info: https://support.microsoft.com/windows-security
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