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How to Create a SharePoint Upload-Only Folder for External Users
Question details
The user needs to provide external users with a way to upload files to a specific SharePoint folder without granting them visibility into parent folders or site navigation elements.
- Product
- SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Setting up a secure file drop-off location where external partners can submit documents but cannot view the SharePoint library's structure or other files.
- Observed behavior
- Standard sharing permissions grant external users 'Limited Access' to parent folders, causing library names and navigation elements to remain visible even when users cannot open them.
Verify with your IT administrator that your organization's sharing policies permit 'Anyone' links, as this setting is required to use SharePoint's native upload-only features.
Use the 'Request Files' Feature
This is the most secure and recommended method for an upload-only workflow, allowing external users to upload files without seeing any folder contents or site navigation.
The 'Request files' feature creates a unique link where external users can only upload files. They cannot view, edit, or delete any other files in the folder. This bypasses the standard 'Limited Access' navigation visibility completely.
Navigate to your SharePoint Document Library and select the folder you want to use for external uploads.
Click on the 'Request files' option located in the top command bar or by clicking the three-dot (ellipsis) menu next to the folder.
Enter a descriptive name for the files you are requesting. This name will be visible to the external users when they open the upload link. Click 'Next'.
Copy the generated link to share it manually, or enter the email addresses of your external users to send the upload request directly from SharePoint.
Create a Dedicated External Library
Use this workaround if the 'Request files' feature is disabled by your organization's policy, by isolating the upload environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 'Request files' option missing in my SharePoint library?
The 'Request files' feature is only available if your organization's SharePoint administrator has enabled 'Anyone' links for file sharing. If sharing is restricted to specific people or internal users, this button will not appear.
Why do external users see 'Limited Access' on parent folders?
SharePoint automatically grants 'Limited Access' to the parent site and library levels so the external user can reach the specific folder you shared. This is a structural necessity but can inadvertently reveal library names in the navigation menu.
Can external users view or modify other files when using the 'Request files' link?
No. The 'Request files' feature provides a strictly upload-only interface. External users cannot view, download, edit, or delete any files that are already inside that folder.
