OneDrive File Issues

How to Configure Separate OneDrive and SharePoint Sync Folder Locations

Rana Garcia Oct 8, 2026 869 views

Question details

Configure Windows 11 to keep personal OneDrive files under the user's profile directory while syncing shared company SharePoint libraries to a separate custom local folder.

How to Configure Separate Sync Locations for OneDrive and SharePoint

Product: OneDrive and SharePoint
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Administrators or users need to isolate shared organizational data in a specific root directory (e.g., C:\01) while maintaining the default user profile path for personal OneDrive for Business files on Entra ID joined devices.
Observed behavior: Users need a method to safely detach and redirect the synchronization path for SharePoint document libraries without altering the default personal OneDrive synchronization behavior or relying on unsupported network shares.

Before you start

Ensure you have administrator permissions to create new folders on your local C: drive, and verify that all current file syncs are completely up to date before making changes.

Solution 1Recommended

Use 'Change Location' During SharePoint Sync Setup

Unlink your current OneDrive setup, remove the old synced folders, and designate a new custom folder path specifically for the SharePoint library during the resynchronization process.

OneDrive for Business and SharePoint sync folders operate independently. This allows you to define distinct local directories for each service. However, it is critical that you use the native setup options rather than relying on Windows folder workarounds like symbolic links or junctions.

Unlink your current PC

Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar, select the Settings gear icon, navigate to the Account tab, and click 'Unlink this PC'.

Remove previous sync folders

Open File Explorer and delete or move the old SharePoint sync folders to prevent file duplication or syncing conflicts.

Create a new local destination

Navigate to your desired local drive (such as your C: drive) and create the new folder where you want the company SharePoint files to reside (e.g., C:\01).

Initiate a new SharePoint sync

Open your web browser, navigate to your company's SharePoint library, and click the 'Sync' button in the toolbar to launch the OneDrive client.

Change the sync location

When the OneDrive setup wizard appears, do not click 'Next' immediately. Instead, click the 'Change location' link on the setup screen and select the newly created folder (C:\01) before completing the configuration.

Use 'Change Location' During SharePoint Sync Setup

Important Limitations: Syncing SharePoint files for multiple users to a single shared network folder is not supported by Microsoft. Each user must sync the library to a local folder on their own device. Additionally, do not use symbolic links or junctions to redirect sync paths.

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Once your OneDrive and SharePoint folders are perfectly organized, consider pairing your streamlined workflow with WPS Office. As a lightweight and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, WPS Office lets you easily open, edit, and save documents directly from your newly synced local directories.

1. Download and Install: Get the free version of WPS Office from the official website and install it on your Windows 11 device.
2. Access Synced Files: Launch WPS Office, click 'Open', and navigate directly to your custom SharePoint folder (e.g., C:\01) or your personal OneDrive folder.
3. Edit and Auto-Sync: Edit your documents normally. When you click 'Save', the OneDrive client running in the background will automatically sync your changes to the cloud.

Free and lightweight Office suite that doesn't slow down your Windows 11 PCFully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)Seamlessly open and save files directly to your local OneDrive and SharePoint sync foldersFamiliar, tabbed user interface for effortless document management and multitasking

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing the SharePoint sync location affect my personal OneDrive folder?

No. The OneDrive for Business and SharePoint sync folders operate completely separately. Your personal OneDrive files will automatically remain in their standard location under your user profile (e.g., C:\Users\username) unless you explicitly change that location as well.

Can I sync a SharePoint library to a shared network drive for multiple users?

No, syncing SharePoint files for multiple users to a single shared network share is not supported. Each user must sync the files to an individual local folder on their own machine.

Can I use symbolic links or junctions to manage SharePoint sync locations?

Microsoft strongly advises against using symbolic links or directory junctions for OneDrive or SharePoint sync folders, as they can cause synchronization errors and file duplication. Always use the built-in 'Change location' option in the OneDrive setup wizard.

Document & File Issues