How to Identify the File Behind a SharePoint Shared Link
Question details
The user needs to determine the specific item type (such as a file, folder, or video) that a SharePoint shared URL directs to, as the link itself may not display the file extension.
- Product
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Receiving a SharePoint shared link and needing to understand what type of document or item it leads to before or after opening it.
- Observed behavior
- The shared URL alone does not clearly reveal the complete file path or item type, making it difficult to identify the exact target file.
Ensure you have the necessary viewing permissions for the SharePoint environment, as restricted links may prevent you from accessing the destination or viewing its details.
Analyze URL Segments and Locate the File in SharePoint
Examine the shared link for specific character segments that indicate the file type, or open the link to reveal its full path in the SharePoint library.
SharePoint sharing links often mask the exact file path and extension to keep the URL concise. However, they sometimes contain internal identifiers. If the URL does not clearly show the extension, opening it in a browser will usually redirect to the actual file path, allowing you to identify it.
Check the raw shared link for segments such as `:v:` (video), `/s/` (site page), `:w:` (Word document), or `:x:` (Excel spreadsheet).
Paste the SharePoint URL into your browser's address bar and press Enter to let the page load completely.
Once the page has loaded, look at the new URL in your browser's address bar. It will typically display the full document library path and the exact file extension (e.g., .docx, .xlsx, .pdf).
If you still cannot identify the file type, navigate to the root SharePoint site, open the associated 'Documents' library, and manually browse the folders to locate the item based on its name.
Open and Edit Your Downloaded SharePoint Files with WPS Office
Once you have identified and downloaded your files from SharePoint, you need a reliable office suite to view and edit them. WPS Office is a highly compatible, lightweight, and free alternative to Microsoft Office that easily handles your Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your Windows, Mac, or Linux operating system.
- 2. Install the software: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the WPS Office suite on your device.
- 3. Open your downloaded files: Launch WPS Office and drag and drop your downloaded SharePoint files directly into the workspace to start viewing or editing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tell what a SharePoint link is without clicking it?
It can be difficult if it is a shortened sharing link, but you can sometimes look for specific URL parameters like `:v:` for videos, `:b:` for PDFs, or `/s/` for sites in the raw link text before clicking.
Why does the resolved URL not show a file extension?
If the link points to a folder, a site page, or a list item rather than a specific document, there will be no traditional file extension (like .docx or .pdf) present in the resolved address.
What happens if I click a SharePoint link for a file that was deleted?
SharePoint will typically display a '404 File Not Found' error or a message stating that the item might have been deleted, has expired, or that you no longer have permission to view it.
