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Fix OneDrive Shared Folders Opening as Edge Links in File Explorer
Question details
Shared OneDrive folders appear as URL links in File Explorer and open in Microsoft Edge instead of displaying the folder contents locally.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Accessing shared OneDrive folders via desktop File Explorer.
- Observed behavior
- Folders display as URL shortcuts that launch Microsoft Edge instead of opening as normal file directories.
Ensure you have an active internet connection and your Microsoft account login credentials handy so you can access the web version of OneDrive.
Access Shared Folders via OneDrive Web Interface
Since this is a known Microsoft synchronization bug affecting desktop File Explorer, the most reliable temporary workaround is to access your shared files directly through your web browser.
Microsoft is aware of this internal OneDrive synchronization error and is actively working on a resolution. During this time, the desktop application fails to render the folders correctly, substituting them with URL links.
Launch Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or your preferred web browser on your computer.
Go to OneDrive.com and click the Sign In button using your standard Microsoft account credentials.
Click on 'Shared' in the left-hand navigation panel to view all folders and files that have been shared with you.
Open, download, or edit your files directly within the web interface until the desktop application sync issue is fully resolved.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Cloud File Management
If you are frustrated by Microsoft OneDrive synchronization issues, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, user-friendly interface with reliable built-in cloud storage, ensuring you can easily save, sync, and share your documents without annoying shortcut glitches.
- 1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free WPS Office suite on your device.
- 2. Activate WPS Cloud: Sign in to activate your free WPS Cloud storage for seamless document synchronization.
- 3. Manage Files Easily: Open, edit, and save your Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files directly to WPS Cloud without relying on external folder syncing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my OneDrive folder suddenly turn into an internet shortcut?
This is caused by a known Microsoft OneDrive synchronization glitch affecting shared folders, which temporarily converts them into URL files that link directly to the web interface rather than rendering locally.
Do I need to manually change the URL files back to normal folders?
No, you do not need to take any manual action. Microsoft has confirmed that the URL files will automatically revert to normal file folders once they deploy a patch for the synchronization issue.
Are my shared files lost or deleted due to this error?
Your files are perfectly safe and unaffected. The desktop shortcut is simply pointing to the web browser instead of opening locally. You can still access all your contents by logging into OneDrive.com.
