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How to Convert a Classic SharePoint Site to the Modern Experience
Question details
The user wants to modernize existing classic SharePoint 365 team sites without creating new sites or migrating data.
- Product
- SharePoint Online
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Modernizing legacy team sites to utilize the modern SharePoint interface and capabilities.
- Observed behavior
- The user needs to transition an existing classic site to a modern experience without data loss or content migration.
Ensure you have Tenant Administrator privileges in Microsoft 365, as converting classic sites and modifying group connections require elevated administrative permissions.
Connect the Classic Site to a New Microsoft 365 Group
The standard method to modernize a classic team site is to connect it to a new Microsoft 365 group, which updates the interface without moving your files.
Connecting a classic SharePoint site to a new Microsoft 365 group is the Microsoft-recommended way to apply the modern experience. This process leaves your existing content, permissions, and structure intact.
Navigate to your classic SharePoint site and click the gear icon in the top right corner to open the Settings menu.
Look for and click on the 'Connect to new Microsoft 365 Group' option to initiate the modernization process.
Follow the on-screen prompts to configure the group name, privacy settings, and owners. Once completed, your site homepage will be updated to the modern experience.
Contact Microsoft Support for Complex Site Configurations
If the option to connect to a group is missing or the site configuration is too complex, tenant administrators should reach out to Microsoft Support.
Looking for a Lightweight and Hassle-Free Office Solution?
While modernizing SharePoint sites involves complex administrative settings, your everyday document management shouldn't be. WPS Office offers a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, allowing for seamless team collaboration and local document editing without the heavy configuration.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the quick setup instructions to install WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Open and Edit Microsoft Formats: Launch WPS Office and directly open any existing .docx, .xlsx, or .pptx files to start editing immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my data when converting a classic SharePoint site to the modern experience?
No, connecting your classic site to a Microsoft 365 group and updating the UI to the modern experience does not migrate, delete, or alter your existing document libraries or list data.
Why is the 'Connect to new Microsoft 365 Group' option missing from my site settings?
This option might be missing depending on your current site configuration, custom site templates, or your permission level. You must be a site collection administrator, and the site must be a supported template (like STS#0) to see this option.
Can I use PowerShell to modernize my classic SharePoint sites?
Yes, tenant administrators can use the SharePoint Online Management Shell (PowerShell) to connect classic team sites to Microsoft 365 groups, which is especially useful when modernizing multiple sites in bulk.
