Fix OneDrive Creating Internet Shortcuts for Shared Folders
Question details
Users are encountering unwanted Internet shortcut files in their local OneDrive-synced folders. These shortcuts point to cloud-based OneNote notebooks or shared Microsoft 365 locations and reappear immediately even after being deleted.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Syncing cloud-based OneNote notebooks and shared Microsoft 365 folders to a local machine using the OneDrive desktop client.
- Observed behavior
- Internet shortcuts are automatically created in local folders. Deleting the shortcuts or uninstalling the local OneNote application does not resolve the issue, as the shortcuts return upon the next sync cycle.
Ensure your OneDrive desktop application is currently running and logged into your Microsoft account before attempting to modify your folder synchronization settings.
Exclude the Folder from OneDrive Synchronization
Move the source files to a dedicated folder and exclude it from your sync list to prevent the shortcuts from appearing on your local drive.
Since uninstalling the local application does not remove the cloud source, the most effective method to stop these shortcuts from reappearing is to modify your OneDrive synchronization preferences.
Move all your OneNote notebooks or shared folders into a single, specific folder within your OneDrive cloud storage via the web interface.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in your system tray or menu bar, click the gear icon, and select 'Settings'.
Navigate to the 'Account' tab and click on the 'Choose folders' button.
Uncheck the specific folder where you placed the notebooks, then click 'OK' to apply changes. OneDrive will stop syncing this folder to your local device.
Delete Unneeded Notebooks from the Cloud
If the shared locations or OneNote notebooks are no longer required, permanently deleting them from the cloud source will stop the shortcuts from generating.
Experience Hassle-Free Cloud Syncing with WPS Office
Tired of dealing with unwanted internet shortcuts and complex synchronization settings in Microsoft 365? Switch to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with its own built-in, easy-to-use WPS Cloud, ensuring your local workspace remains clean and organized.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen prompts to set up WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Sign In and Sync: Log in with a free WPS account to seamlessly back up, sync, and manage your documents across multiple devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't uninstalling OneNote remove the internet shortcuts?
Uninstalling the OneNote desktop application only removes the local software. The internet shortcuts are generated by OneDrive actively syncing your cloud files. Until the source file is removed from the cloud or excluded from syncing, OneDrive will continue to recreate the shortcuts locally.
Can I globally disable internet shortcuts for shared folders in OneDrive?
No, OneDrive does not have a direct, global setting to prevent notebooks or shared links from appearing as shortcuts. You must manage them individually by excluding specific folders from your sync settings via the 'Choose folders' option.
What happens if I click the internet shortcuts in my synced folder?
Double-clicking the shortcut will open your default web browser and direct you straight to the web-based version of the shared Microsoft 365 location or OneNote notebook.
