If your organization stores files in SharePoint, you can work with them directly from File Explorer in Windows 10, just like local folders. The recommended way is to sync the SharePoint library with the OneDrive app, or add a shortcut to it in your OneDrive. This guide covers both methods, the older mapped drive approach, and how to fix common sync problems.
Quick Answer
Open the SharePoint document library in your browser and click Sync in the toolbar. When prompted, allow it to open Microsoft OneDrive and sign in with your work or school account. The library appears in File Explorer under your organization's name. Alternatively, click Add shortcut to My files to show it inside your OneDrive folder.
Sync vs. Add Shortcut
| Sync | Add shortcut to My files | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it appears | A separate folder with your organization's name | Inside your OneDrive folder |
| Works across devices | Set up on each PC separately | Follows your OneDrive to every device |
| Microsoft's recommendation | Supported | Generally recommended for new setups |
| Remove | OneDrive settings > Account > Stop sync | Delete the shortcut from OneDrive |
Before You Start
- Make sure the OneDrive app is installed and updated. It is built into Windows 10.
- Sign in to OneDrive with your work or school account (the same account you use for SharePoint).
- You need at least read access to the library, and your organization must allow syncing.
Method 1: Sync a SharePoint Library
- Open your SharePoint site in a web browser and go to the document library (for example, Documents).
- Click Sync in the toolbar.
- If your browser asks to open Microsoft OneDrive, click Open or Allow.
- Sign in if prompted. OneDrive starts syncing.
- Open File Explorer. The library appears in the left pane under a building icon with your organization's name.
Method 2: Add a Shortcut to OneDrive
- Open the SharePoint library or folder in your browser.
- Click Add shortcut to My files (or Add shortcut to OneDrive).
- Open File Explorer and go to your OneDrive – [Organization] folder. The shortcut appears there and syncs automatically.
Save Space With Files On-Demand
Synced SharePoint files appear in File Explorer without downloading everything. Files show a cloud icon until you open them. Right-click a file or folder and choose Always keep on this device to keep it offline, or Free up space to remove the local copy.
Older Method: Map as a Network Drive
SharePoint can also be mapped as a network drive using its web address (WebDAV) with the Open with Explorer feature. Microsoft has retired this approach in modern SharePoint and it depends on Internet Explorer compatibility and the WebClient service, so it is not recommended. Use Sync or Add shortcut instead.
Stop Syncing a Library
- Click the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar and open Settings.
- On the Account tab, find the library under Locations syncing on this PC (or Sync and back up > Manage in newer versions).
- Click Stop sync and confirm.
Troubleshooting
The Sync button is missing
Your administrator may have disabled syncing, or you may be in a list rather than a document library. Try Add shortcut to My files, or contact IT.
Files show a red X or sync errors
Check file names for unsupported characters, very long paths, or files open in other programs. Click the OneDrive icon to see specific errors.
OneDrive does not open when clicking Sync
Update OneDrive, sign in with your work account, and try again. Some browsers need permission to open external apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use SharePoint in File Explorer without OneDrive?
Not in a supported way for modern SharePoint. OneDrive handles syncing.
Will changes sync back to SharePoint?
Yes. Edits, new files, and deletions sync both ways, so be careful when deleting files others use.
Does this work on Windows 11?
Yes. The steps are the same.
Summary
- Open the SharePoint library in a browser.
- Click Sync or Add shortcut to My files.
- Find the library in File Explorer under your organization or OneDrive.
- Use Files On-Demand to save space, and stop syncing from OneDrive settings.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.