OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix the Internet Shortcut Target Is Invalid Error in OneDrive

Emma Brown Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users are encountering an error where OneDrive shared-folder shortcuts appear as invalid URL files instead of standard folders.

Fixing the Internet Shortcut Target Is Invalid Error in OneDrive

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Accessing synced shared folders locally through the file explorer using OneDrive.
Observed behavior: Shared folder shortcuts display as URL files. When clicked, the system throws an 'Internet shortcut target is invalid' error instead of opening the folder.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and your web browser is up to date, as you will need to access your files online while this sync issue is being resolved by Microsoft.

Solution 1Recommended

Access Shared Folders via OneDrive Web

Since the local desktop shortcuts are temporarily broken by a known bug, you can bypass the error by accessing your shared folders directly through the OneDrive website.

Microsoft is aware of this specific issue where synced shared-folder shortcuts incorrectly display as internet URL files.

Until the official patch is fully deployed, utilizing the web version of OneDrive is the most reliable workaround to maintain access to your shared files.

Open OneDrive Web

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

Sign In

Navigate to Shared Files

Click on the 'Shared' tab located on the left-hand navigation panel to view all folders shared with you.

Open and Edit

Click on the desired shared folder to open it. From here, you can view, download, or edit your files directly.

Automatic Resolution Pending: You do not need to manually fix or delete the invalid shortcuts. Once Microsoft fully resolves the backend issue, the URL files will automatically convert back to functional folders.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my OneDrive shared folders suddenly appear as internet shortcuts?

This is due to a known bug identified by Microsoft where synced shared-folder shortcuts are incorrectly rendered as URL files instead of standard system directories.

Will I lose my files because of the invalid shortcut error?

No, your files are perfectly safe in the cloud. The error only affects the local shortcut link on your computer's file explorer, not the actual files stored on OneDrive.

Do I need to delete the URL files and recreate the shortcuts?

It is highly recommended not to delete them. Microsoft has confirmed that once the fix is fully deployed to all users, the broken URL files will automatically revert to fully functional folders.

Document & File Issues