SharePoint Document Issues

How to Switch Between Classic and Modern Views in SharePoint

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to know if and how they can switch between the classic and modern interface views for SharePoint lists and document libraries.

Product: SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Navigating and viewing files or items within a SharePoint list or document library.
Observed behavior: Users need to toggle between classic and modern experiences, which is generally allowed unless strictly restricted by a site administrator's default settings.

Before you start

Ensure you are logged into your SharePoint environment and verify that your site administrator has not enforced a mandatory view restriction for the specific list or library.

Solution 1Recommended

Switch Between Classic and Modern Experiences in SharePoint

Users can manually toggle the view for individual lists and document libraries using the built-in SharePoint options.

While SharePoint administrators can set a default experience for lists and libraries across a site, individual users generally retain the ability to switch between classic and modern views for their own sessions. This allows you to use the interface that best suits your current task.

Open the SharePoint List or Library

Navigate to the specific SharePoint list or document library you want to view in your web browser.

Return to Classic View

If you are currently in the modern experience and need the classic view, scroll to the bottom left corner of the page and click the 'Return to classic SharePoint' link.

Exit Classic Experience

If you are in the classic view and want to switch back to the modern experience, look for and click the 'Exit classic experience' link located at the top left of the list or library page.

Administrator Controls: If you do not see the option to switch views, your site administrator may have enforced a specific view for your organization, preventing manual toggling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the option to exit the classic experience missing in SharePoint?

If the 'Exit classic experience' link is missing, your site administrator may have configured the specific list or library to strictly use the classic experience. Additionally, your browser cache might be stuck; try clearing your cache or contacting your IT administrator.

Does switching between classic and modern views affect other users on the site?

No. When you manually click 'Return to classic SharePoint' or 'Exit classic experience', it only changes the view for your individual browser session. Other users will continue to see the default view or their own chosen view.

Can a site administrator force the modern view for all users?

Yes, SharePoint administrators can configure site, list, or library settings to default to the modern experience. Depending on the tenant settings, they can also restrict users from reverting to the classic view.

Document & File Issues