Understanding Linked Folders in Microsoft Teams
Question details
The user wants to know the meaning of a folder displaying a link symbol in Microsoft Teams, where the only available action is to delete it.
- Product
- Microsoft Teams
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Navigating directories and managing shared files within Microsoft Teams.
- Observed behavior
- A folder appears with a link icon on it, and the context menu only provides the option to delete it, causing confusion about its origin and the consequences of removing it.
Before removing any linked folders in Microsoft Teams, ensure you verify whether it is a personal shortcut or a shared team directory to avoid accidental loss of quick access.
Identify and Manage the Shortcut Folder
Understand that the link symbol indicates a shortcut pointing to another location, and learn how to safely manage or remove it without deleting the original files.
When you see a folder with a link symbol in Microsoft Teams, it is typically a shortcut pointing to a shared OneDrive folder or a document library hosted in SharePoint.
Because it is only a reference shortcut rather than a physical folder, modifying its properties is restricted by the system. This explains why 'Delete' or 'Remove' is often the only visible option in the context menu.
Hover over the linked folder or click 'Open in SharePoint' from the top menu in Teams to trace where the actual files are stored.
Recognize that clicking 'Delete' on this linked folder will only remove the shortcut from your view. It will not delete the original SharePoint folder or the files inside it.
If you no longer need quick access to this directory, select the linked folder, click the three dots (More options), and choose 'Delete' or 'Remove shortcut'.
Collaborate Seamlessly on Shared Files with WPS Office
While Microsoft Teams handles your file sharing and shortcuts, WPS Office provides a lightweight, free alternative for opening, editing, and collaborating on your downloaded documents without compatibility issues.
- 1. Download and Install: Get WPS Office for free from the official website and install it on your device.
- 2. Open Shared Documents: Easily open your .docx, .xlsx, or .pptx files accessed from your Teams or SharePoint folders.
- 3. Edit and Save: Make your edits with advanced formatting tools and save directly back to your cloud or local drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will deleting a linked folder in Teams delete the actual files?
No. Deleting a linked folder only removes the shortcut from your Teams or OneDrive view. The original files remain intact and secure in their original SharePoint or OneDrive location.
Why can I only see 'Delete' when I right-click the linked folder?
Because it is merely a shortcut created to point to another location, standard folder operations like rename, move, or change permissions are restricted. You can only remove the reference link itself.
How do I create a shortcut to a shared folder in Teams?
You can navigate to the original SharePoint site or OneDrive where the target folder lives, select the folder, and click the 'Add shortcut to OneDrive' button from the top toolbar to create quick access.
