Microsoft 365 Migration

How to Transfer OneDrive Files Between Microsoft 365 Users Without Bypassing MFA

Nimra Malik Oct 26, 2026 870 views

Question details

A Microsoft 365 administrator needs to securely move files between two users' OneDrive accounts without logging in as the users or triggering their MFA prompts.

How to Transfer OneDrive Files Between Users Without Bypassing MFA

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Migrating or transferring OneDrive data between users while maintaining MFA security protocols.
Observed behavior: The administrator needs authorized administrative access to transfer files seamlessly without requiring the source user's Microsoft Authenticator approval.

Before you start

Ensure you have Global Administrator or SharePoint Administrator privileges in your Microsoft 365 tenant before attempting to access another user's OneDrive.

Solution 1Recommended

Create a Link to Files via Microsoft 365 Admin Center

The most secure way for an admin to access a user's OneDrive files without needing their login credentials or MFA approval.

Using the admin center allows you to generate a secure link to the user's OneDrive, granting you direct access to their files securely.

Once accessed, you can download the files or move them using SharePoint administration methods.

Log in to the Admin Center

Navigate to Active Users

Go to the 'Users' section and select 'Active users' from the left-hand navigation menu.

Select the Target User

Click on the name of the user whose OneDrive files you need to access.

Access the OneDrive Tab

In the user details pane that appears on the right, click on the 'OneDrive' tab.

Generate the Access Link

Under the 'Get access to files' section, click 'Create link to files' and click the generated URL to open their OneDrive securely.

Create a Link to Files via Microsoft 365 Admin Center

Security Notice: Never attempt to bypass MFA by asking for or using another person's login credentials.

Solution 2

Sync OneDrive Accounts Locally for Transfer

Use the OneDrive desktop client to sync both the source and destination accounts to manually move files after gaining delegated access.

Solution 3

Perform a Managed Migration with a Third-Party Tool

For large-scale transfers or when direct move options are limited, using an approved migration tool is recommended.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move files directly from one OneDrive to another in the Microsoft 365 admin center?

No, generating an access link gives you direct access to the files via your browser, but it does not provide a one-click 'Move' button to another user's OneDrive. You will need to download and upload the files, sync them locally, or use a SharePoint migration tool.

Why shouldn't I just log in as the user to transfer their files?

Logging in as the user requires their credentials and either bypasses or triggers their MFA (Microsoft Authenticator prompt). This violates organizational security best practices and compliance standards. Always use admin delegation tools to access files securely.

Do I need a special license to transfer files between Microsoft 365 users?

No special license is required to use the 'Create link to files' feature natively, provided you have Global Administrator or SharePoint Administrator rights. However, third-party migration tools may require their own licensing or per-user fees.

What should I do if the OneDrive client produces sync errors during the transfer?

If you encounter sync errors while moving files locally, check your internet connection, ensure file paths are not too long, and verify that there are no restricted characters in the filenames. You can view specific sync error details by clicking the OneDrive icon in your system tray.

Migration & Recovery