File Sharing Problems

Fix OneDrive Sharing Not Working in Windows File Explorer

WPS Content Manager Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to access shared folders or use OneDrive sharing features locally via Windows File Explorer, although the shared files remain accessible on the OneDrive web interface.

How to Fix OneDrive Sharing Not Working in Windows File Explorer

Product: OneDrive / Windows File Explorer
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to access and manage shared OneDrive files directly from the local Windows File Explorer.
Observed behavior: OneDrive sharing functionality fails in File Explorer, stopping normal synchronization of shared folders, though web access continues to function normally.

Before you start

Log into your OneDrive account through a web browser to confirm your shared files and folders are still intact and accessible online.

Solution 1Recommended

Map OneDrive as a Network Drive Using Your CID

This workaround allows you to access your OneDrive shared files directly in File Explorer by creating a network drive connection to Microsoft's Live servers.

While this method provides local access to your shared files through File Explorer, please note that it does not restore offline synchronization. You will need an active internet connection to access the mapped drive.

Find Your OneDrive CID

Log in to OneDrive on the web. Look at the URL in your browser's address bar and copy the alphanumeric code following 'cid=' (e.g., cid=1234567890ABCDEF).

Open Network Drive Settings

Open Windows File Explorer, select 'This PC' from the left sidebar, and click on 'Map network drive' in the top ribbon menu.

Enter the Network Address

Choose a drive letter. In the Folder field, type 'https://d.docs.live.net/' followed immediately by your copied CID (e.g., https://d.docs.live.net/1234567890ABCDEF).

Authenticate the Connection

Check the box for 'Reconnect at sign-in' and click Finish. When prompted, enter your Microsoft account email and password to connect.

Map OneDrive as a Network Drive Using Your CID

Authentication Prompt: If you frequently get asked for credentials when opening the drive, check the 'Remember my credentials' box during the sign-in prompt.

Solution 2

Unlink and Relink Your OneDrive Account

Resetting the connection between your PC and OneDrive can sometimes restore native File Explorer synchronization and sharing features.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly do I find my OneDrive CID number?

Your CID is located in the URL address bar when you log into the OneDrive web interface. Look for 'cid=' followed by a 16-character alphanumeric string.

Will mapping a network drive download all my OneDrive files to my PC?

No, mapping a network drive creates an online shortcut to your files. It does not download them locally to your hard drive, which helps save storage space but requires an active internet connection to access.

Can I use this network drive workaround to sync files offline?

No, this specific workaround relies on connecting to the d.docs.live.net servers directly. It does not restore the native offline synchronization capabilities of the official OneDrive desktop application.

Document & File Issues