OneDrive File Issues

Why Is a Microsoft Edge .lnk File in OneDrive and How to Fix It

Adam Davis Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to understand why a Microsoft Edge shortcut file (.lnk) is appearing in their OneDrive folder and how to resolve or manage this sync behavior.

Why Is a Microsoft Edge .lnk File in OneDrive?

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: The user notices an unexpected Microsoft Edge shortcut file (.lnk) synchronized to their OneDrive Documents or root folder.
Observed behavior: A Windows shortcut (.lnk) pointing to the Microsoft Edge browser is automatically uploaded and synchronized to the user's OneDrive account.

Before you start

Before modifying your synchronization settings, ensure that your important personal files are safely backed up or stored locally, and verify the shortcut's target to confirm it is a legitimate Microsoft Edge link.

Solution 1Recommended

Check and Manage OneDrive Folder Backup Settings

Identify if the .lnk file is syncing from your Desktop and adjust OneDrive backup settings to prevent unwanted shortcuts from uploading.

A `.lnk` file is a standard Windows shortcut. If you see an Edge shortcut in your OneDrive, it usually means OneDrive's folder backup feature is actively syncing your Desktop or Documents folder to the cloud.

Open OneDrive Settings

Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon located in your Windows taskbar notification area and select the gear icon to open 'Settings'.

Navigate to Sync and Backup

In the left-hand menu of the OneDrive settings window, click on the 'Sync and backup' tab.

Manage Folder Backup

Click the 'Manage backup' button. This will display a list of PC folders (such as Desktop, Documents, and Pictures) that are currently being synchronized.

Disable Desktop Sync

Toggle off the backup for the 'Desktop' or 'Documents' folder if you no longer wish to sync these shortcuts to the cloud. Confirm your changes when prompted.

Check and Manage OneDrive Folder Backup Settings

Safe Deletion: You can safely delete the .lnk file from OneDrive if you do not need the shortcut, but note that if Desktop sync is still active, deleting it from OneDrive will also remove it from your physical Desktop.

Solution 2

Verify the Shortcut Target

Check where the shortcut is pointing to ensure it is a safe, standard Microsoft Edge link before taking further action.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Your Documents Effectively with WPS Office

While adjusting your OneDrive sync settings, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative to Microsoft Office, ensuring seamless document management without forcing unwanted cloud synchronization of your local shortcuts.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your PC.
3. Start Creating and Editing: Open WPS Office to manage your documents locally, maintaining full compatibility with Microsoft Office formats.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx).Lightweight application that does not forcibly clutter your cloud storage with system shortcuts.Built-in cloud sync options that give you full control over exactly what gets uploaded.Familiar, tabbed user interface for easy multi-document editing and seamless migration.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a .lnk file?

A .lnk file is a standard Windows shortcut file used to point to an application, file, or folder. In this case, it acts as a quick launch link for the Microsoft Edge web browser.

Can I safely delete the Microsoft Edge .lnk file from OneDrive?

Yes, you can safely delete the .lnk file from your OneDrive folder. However, if your Desktop is actively syncing, deleting the file from OneDrive will simultaneously remove the corresponding shortcut from your computer's physical Desktop.

Why did a shortcut suddenly appear in my OneDrive without me moving it?

This usually happens when OneDrive's 'PC Folder Backup' feature is turned on for your Desktop. Any new shortcut created on your Desktop—such as when a browser update automatically places a new Edge icon there—will automatically sync to your OneDrive account.

How do I stop OneDrive from syncing my Desktop shortcuts?

Open your OneDrive Settings from the taskbar, navigate to the 'Sync and backup' tab, click 'Manage backup', and toggle off the Desktop folder. This will stop local shortcuts and files on your Desktop from uploading to OneDrive.

Document & File Issues