File Sharing Problems

Fix OneDrive Shared Folder Creating an Internet Shortcut Instead of Syncing

Adam Davis Oct 10, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to sync a shared OneDrive folder to their local computer, but clicking 'Add shortcut to my files' only creates an internet web shortcut instead of a synchronized folder.

How to Fix OneDrive Shared Folder Creating an Internet Shortcut Instead of Syncing

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Adding a folder shared by a colleague to local OneDrive files for offline access and direct folder synchronization.
Observed behavior: An internet shortcut (.url) is generated instead of a standard locally synchronized folder, preventing direct file access in File Explorer, even though other shared folders sync correctly.

Before you start

Verify that your OneDrive desktop application is up to date and that you are signed into the exact same Microsoft account on both your web browser and desktop app.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Direct Access and Re-add the Shortcut

Removing the corrupted shortcut and re-adding it from the web interface can sometimes resolve temporary synchronization glitches.

If a specific folder fails to sync and creates a web link instead, the shortcut mapping might have failed during the initial setup. Clearing it out and trying again is the best first step.

Delete the existing shortcut

Open your local File Explorer or Finder, navigate to your OneDrive folder, locate the internet shortcut that was created, and delete it.

Access 'Shared with me'

Log into OneDrive on your web browser and click on the 'Shared' tab on the left-hand navigation menu to locate the problematic folder.

Re-add the shortcut

Select the folder by clicking the circle on its icon, then click 'Add shortcut to my files' from the top menu bar.

Check synchronization

Wait a few moments and check your local OneDrive folder to see if it now appears as a standard folder with a sync status icon instead of an internet shortcut.

Verify Direct Access and Re-add the Shortcut

Wait for Syncing: Depending on the size of the shared folder, it may take a few minutes for the OneDrive desktop client to process the new shortcut and display it as a synchronized folder.

Solution 2

Ask the Folder Owner to Recreate the Sharing Link

If only one specific folder is failing while others work normally, the issue is likely a defective sharing link or misconfigured permissions on the owner's side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive create an internet shortcut instead of a synchronized folder?

This issue typically occurs due to corrupted folder permissions, conflicts with existing shortcuts in your directory, or backend syncing glitches with the specific sharing link provided by the owner.

How do I view all the folders shared with me in OneDrive?

To view shared folders, log in to the web version of OneDrive and click on the 'Shared' tab in the left-hand navigation pane. This section displays all files and folders shared with you, as well as items you have shared with others.

Will deleting a shared folder shortcut delete the original files?

No. When you delete a shortcut to a shared folder from your local OneDrive, it only removes the mapping from your account. The original folder and its contents remain entirely safe and intact for the owner and other collaborators.

Can I sync a shared folder if I only have 'View' access?

Yes, you can use 'Add shortcut to my files' for view-only folders. The folder will sync to your local device, allowing you to read the files, but you will not be able to edit them or upload new files back to the owner's directory.

Document & File Issues