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Fix OneDrive Shared Folders Showing as Internet Shortcuts
Question details
Users report that OneDrive shared folders are disappearing from Windows File Explorer and are being replaced by internet shortcuts.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Accessing shared OneDrive folders via Windows File Explorer.
- Observed behavior
- Shared folders vanish from local storage views and are substituted with URL links that force users to open the files in a web browser instead of locally.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and can log into the OneDrive web interface to access your shared files during this troubleshooting process.
Add the Shared Folder as a Network Location
Since this is a known bug, you can bypass the shortcut issue by mapping the parent folder directly as a network drive in Windows File Explorer.
This is a temporary workaround while Microsoft addresses the bug. By mapping the network location manually, you can interact with your shared files natively within File Explorer rather than being forced into the browser experience.
Open a shared Office file in OneDrive using your web browser.
Copy the full URL path of the file from the address bar or the file details pane.
Remove the specific file name from the end of the copied path so it only points to the parent folder.
Open File Explorer in Windows, right-click on 'This PC' in the left sidebar, and select 'Add a network location'.
Paste the modified folder path into the wizard and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my OneDrive folder turn into an internet shortcut?
This is a known syncing issue in Microsoft OneDrive where local shortcuts for shared folders break and default to internet shortcuts, redirecting users to the web application instead of opening locally.
Is there a permanent fix for the OneDrive shortcut bug?
Currently, Microsoft has not released a permanent fix. Users must rely on temporary workarounds, such as adding network locations via File Explorer, or using the web browser until an official update is pushed.
How can I report this issue to Microsoft?
You can report the bug by clicking the Help & Settings gear icon in your OneDrive desktop app, selecting 'Send feedback', and detailing your experience with the shared folder shortcuts.
