File Sharing Problems

Fix OneDrive Folder Sharing Creating Broken Links or Shortcuts

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to fix an issue where sharing a OneDrive folder results in a web link instead of granting direct file access that synchronizes with File Explorer.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: A user is sharing a folder from one Microsoft 365 Family account to another for local synchronization.
Observed behavior: The shared folder creates a broken link or internet shortcut that only opens online, failing to synchronize correctly in the local File Explorer. This issue only affects specific accounts.

Before you start

Verify that your Microsoft OneDrive sync client is updated to the latest version and confirm that both the sender and recipient are using standard personal Microsoft accounts rather than enterprise accounts.

Solution 1Recommended

Remove and Recreate the Share Link

Resetting the folder's access permissions and regenerating the share link can often resolve temporary synchronization glitches between accounts.

Since this issue frequently stems from a known bug in Microsoft's account handling, removing existing permissions and starting fresh is the most effective immediate workaround.

Stop Existing Sharing

Log into OneDrive on the web, right-click the problematic shared folder, select 'Manage Access', and remove the recipient's permissions.

Generate a New Invitation

Click the 'Share' button on the folder, ensure the permission is set to 'Can edit', enter the recipient's email address, and click 'Send'.

Add Shortcut to My Files

Ask the recipient to open the email invitation, view the folder on the OneDrive website, and click 'Add shortcut to My files' in the top menu bar to force local File Explorer synchronization.

Ongoing Microsoft Investigation: Microsoft engineering has confirmed this is a known, account-specific issue. If recreating the link fails, you will need to monitor Microsoft's official service updates for a permanent platform fix.

Solution 2

Access Shared Folders via OneDrive Web Temporarily

Bypass the File Explorer synchronization bug by working directly within the OneDrive web interface until Microsoft deploys a patch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my shared OneDrive folder show as an internet link instead of a standard folder?

This usually occurs due to a known bug with specific Microsoft accounts where the server misinterprets the sharing request, or when there is a configuration mismatch between Personal and Business OneDrive platforms.

How do I force a shared OneDrive folder to sync in File Explorer?

Open OneDrive on the web, navigate to the 'Shared' section on the left menu, open the shared folder, and click 'Add shortcut to My files' on the top toolbar. This integrates the folder into your local File Explorer directory.

Is the broken OneDrive shortcut link issue permanent?

No. Microsoft has acknowledged this behavior as a known issue affecting a specific subset of user accounts. Their engineering team is actively investigating it, and a server-side fix will eventually be deployed.

Document & File Issues