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How to Fix OneDrive Shared Folders Downloading as Internet Shortcuts
Question details
Users are receiving internet shortcut (.url) files instead of actual folders when attempting to download or sync shared folders in OneDrive.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Syncing or downloading folders shared by other users to a local device.
- Observed behavior
- The shared folder appears locally as an internet shortcut file, preventing normal offline access to the folder's contents.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and your Microsoft account login credentials handy, as you will need to access your files via a web browser.
Access Shared Folders via OneDrive on the Web
Bypass the desktop sync bug by viewing and downloading your shared files directly through the OneDrive web interface.
Microsoft has acknowledged a known issue causing shared folders to appear as URL files instead of standard directories. While they are actively working on a service-level fix, the most reliable workaround is to access your files via a web browser.
Avoid relying on these shortcut files as a permanent replacement. Once the official fix is fully deployed, the shortcut files should automatically convert back to normal folders.
Launch your preferred web browser and navigate to the official OneDrive.com website.
Log in using the Microsoft account credentials associated with the files.
Click on the 'Shared' tab in the left-hand navigation menu to view folders that have been shared with you.
Click on the specific shared folder to open it directly in your browser. From here, you can view, edit, or download individual files as needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my OneDrive shared folder turn into an internet shortcut?
Microsoft is currently investigating a known issue where downloading or syncing a shared folder results in an internet shortcut (.url file) instead of a standard directory. It is a temporary bug on Microsoft's end.
Can I still edit the files inside the shortcut folder?
Yes. Double-clicking the shortcut file will redirect you to the folder on the OneDrive web interface. From there, you can open, edit, or download the individual files using Office Online.
Do I need to manually fix or delete the shortcut files?
No manual fix is required. Microsoft has stated that once the service fix is implemented globally, the shortcut files will automatically convert back into normal folders on your device.
