How to Manage SharePoint Library and Folder Permissions on Mobile
Question details
The user wants to know if it is possible to manage or change document library and folder permissions directly within the SharePoint mobile app.
- Product
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- A site administrator needs to modify file or folder access rights while away from a desktop computer.
- Observed behavior
- The SharePoint mobile app does not provide features to manage or alter permissions for document library files and folders.
Ensure you have Site Administrator or Site Owner privileges for the SharePoint site, as standard members cannot modify library or folder permissions.
Use a Mobile Web Browser to Manage Permissions
Since the SharePoint mobile app does not support permission management, you must use a mobile web browser in desktop mode to access these settings.
The SharePoint mobile application is primarily designed for viewing files, checking site updates, and performing basic collaboration tasks. Advanced administrative functions, including modifying access rights, are currently restricted to the web version of the platform.
Launch Safari, Google Chrome, or your preferred web browser on your mobile device.
Navigate to your organization's SharePoint URL and sign in using your administrator credentials.
Tap your browser's menu (usually a three-dot icon or the 'aA' icon in the address bar) and select 'Request Desktop Site' or 'Desktop site' to load the full interface.
Locate the specific document library or folder you want to manage. Tap the three-dot menu next to the item and select 'Manage Access' to adjust user permissions.

Edit Your Documents Seamlessly on Mobile with WPS Office
While you need a web browser to manage SharePoint permissions, editing the actual documents on your mobile device doesn't have to be restrictive. WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and powerful alternative to Microsoft Office that allows you to open, edit, and share Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files natively on your smartphone or tablet.
- 1. Download the app: Install WPS Office for free from your device's app store.
- 2. Open your documents: Locate and open your downloaded SharePoint files directly within the WPS Office app.
- 3. Edit and save: Use the comprehensive mobile editing tools to modify your documents and save them back to your preferred cloud storage.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I find the 'Manage Access' option in the SharePoint mobile app?
Microsoft has not implemented administrative permission features in the SharePoint mobile app. It is optimized for basic file access and site news, so 'Manage Access' is only available through the desktop or web interface.
Will changing permissions in my mobile browser immediately affect all users?
Yes. When you update permissions via your mobile browser, the changes are instantly synchronized to the SharePoint server, immediately updating access rights for all users regardless of the device they are using.
Can I see who has access to a file from the mobile app?
The mobile app may display who a file has been shared with recently, but for a comprehensive view of all user access levels and groups, you must use the 'Manage Access' panel in the web browser version.




