OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix Shared OneDrive Folder Showing as a Link Instead of Syncing

Muhammad Talha Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to sync a shared OneDrive picture folder locally, but it appears as an internet link instead of a synced folder.

How to Fix Shared OneDrive Folder Showing as a Link Instead of Syncing

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to sync a shared folder between two Microsoft 365 Family accounts to access files directly from File Explorer.
Observed behavior: The shared folder can be accessed online, but the 'Sync' button is missing. Using the 'Add shortcut to My files' option results in an internet shortcut link in File Explorer instead of a locally synced folder.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and are logged into the correct Microsoft 365 account on both the OneDrive desktop app and your web browser.

Solution 1Recommended

Access the Shared Folder via OneDrive Web (Recommended Temporary Workaround)

Since this is a known Microsoft issue where shortcuts fail to convert to folders, accessing files directly through the browser is the most reliable temporary method.

Microsoft is aware of the syncing bug where shared folders fail to synchronize locally and create internet shortcuts instead. While they work on resolving the issue on their end, the official recommendation is to use the web version of OneDrive.

Open OneDrive Online

Open your preferred web browser and navigate to OneDrive.com.

Sign In to Your Account

Navigate to Shared Files

Click on 'Shared' in the left-hand navigation pane to view all folders and files shared with you.

Access and Manage Files

Open the shared picture folder to view, download, or upload your files directly within the browser interface.

Access the Shared Folder via OneDrive Web (Recommended Temporary Workaround)

Automatic Conversion: Once Microsoft resolves this known issue, the internet shortcuts in your File Explorer should automatically convert back into fully synchronized local folders.

Solution 2

Install the Latest OneDrive Updates

Updating your OneDrive client ensures you receive the latest bug fixes from Microsoft as soon as they deploy a patch for the shortcut issue.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Sharing and Cloud Syncing

If Microsoft 365 and OneDrive syncing issues are interrupting your daily workflow, WPS Office provides a reliable, lightweight alternative. With built-in WPS Cloud, you can easily share folders, collaborate in real-time, and sync files across all your devices without dealing with shortcut errors. It offers a familiar interface and allows for a seamless migration.

1. Download and Install WPS Office: Get the free WPS Office application from the official website and install it on your computer.
2. Sign in to WPS Cloud: Create a free account or log in to automatically activate your WPS Cloud storage space.
3. Share and Sync Instantly: Create folders in your WPS Cloud drive and use the 'Share' option to collaborate with family or colleagues without syncing errors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my OneDrive shared folder show as an internet shortcut?

This is a known Microsoft OneDrive issue where the 'Add shortcut to My files' feature creates an internet link (.url file) instead of creating a locally synchronized folder. Microsoft is actively working on a permanent fix for this behavior.

Why is the Sync button missing in my shared OneDrive folder?

Microsoft has updated how shared folders function in newer versions of OneDrive. Often, the 'Sync' button is replaced by the 'Add shortcut to My files' option to streamline cloud storage management, though this feature is currently experiencing a known syncing bug.

Will the internet shortcuts automatically become regular folders later?

Yes. According to Microsoft's official guidance, once the underlying syncing issue is resolved on their servers, any shortcut files currently sitting in your File Explorer should automatically convert back to fully synchronized folders without requiring extra steps from you.

Document & File Issues