OneDrive File Issues

Fix Shared OneDrive Folders Appearing as .url Files on Mac

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users report that local shared OneDrive folders on macOS are changing into .url web shortcuts, forcing them to open files in a browser instead of the Finder.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Attempting to access previously synced shared OneDrive folders directly from the local Mac file system.
Observed behavior: Instead of opening as normal local folders, the shared directories appear as .url internet shortcut files that redirect the user to the OneDrive web application.

Before you start

Log into your OneDrive account via a web browser to verify that your shared files are still safely stored in the cloud and intact.

Solution 1Recommended

Access Shared Folders via OneDrive Web

Since this is a known macOS synchronization bug, the most reliable workaround is to access your shared files directly through the web interface.

Microsoft is aware of this specific issue affecting macOS users. While waiting for an official patch to restore local Finder integration, you can continue to collaborate and manage your files online without data loss.

Open OneDrive Online

Launch your preferred web browser (such as Safari or Chrome) and navigate to the official OneDrive website.

Sign in to Your Account

Enter your Microsoft account credentials to log in to your dashboard.

Navigate to Shared Files

Click on the 'Shared' tab in the left-hand navigation menu to view, download, or edit the contents of the affected shared folders.

Data Safety: Your files have not been deleted or corrupted. The .url file is simply a visual and functional glitch in how the Mac client interprets the shared folder link.

Solution 2

Submit Diagnostic Feedback to Microsoft

Reporting your specific instance of the bug helps Microsoft engineers gather diagnostic data and speed up the deployment of a permanent fix.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Avoid Sync Interruptions with WPS Office for Mac

If OneDrive synchronization bugs are interrupting your document management on macOS, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, featuring its own reliable cloud ecosystem so you can work locally and sync seamlessly.

1. Download and Install: Get the free macOS version from the official WPS Office website and complete the quick installation.
2. Sign In for Cloud Access: Log in to claim your free WPS Cloud storage space for secure file backups.
3. Edit and Save Seamlessly: Open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files and edit them locally or in the cloud without worrying about synchronization errors.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Built-in WPS Cloud integration ensures stable cross-platform file synchronization without URL shortcut bugs.Lightweight installation that runs smoothly and efficiently on macOS.Free to use, offering a familiar interface that requires zero learning curve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my local OneDrive folders turn into .url files?

This happens due to a recognized synchronization bug within the OneDrive client for macOS. The app misinterprets the shared folder directory structure and generates an internet shortcut instead of downloading the files locally.

Have I lost the files inside the shared folders?

No, your data is completely safe. The issue only impacts how the folder is displayed locally on your Mac. All files remain securely hosted on Microsoft's servers and can be accessed via the web.

Will reinstalling the OneDrive Mac app fix the URL shortcut issue?

Typically, reinstalling the app or unlinking your account will not resolve this specific behavior because it is a known client-side bug. Microsoft needs to deploy an app update to restore standard folder functionality.

Document & File Issues