How to Add a SharePoint Document Library as a Shortcut in File Explorer

This guide shows you how to access SharePoint document libraries directly from Windows File Explorer, so you can open, edit, and save files without going through a browser.

There are two methods:

• Method 1 (Recommended): Sync with OneDrive — the library appears as a folder in File Explorer and works offline.
• Method 2: Add a Shortcut to OneDrive — a lighter-weight link that appears in File Explorer without syncing all files locally.

Prerequisites

• A Microsoft 365 account with access to the SharePoint site
• The OneDrive sync client installed on your computer (included by default on Windows 10/11; download from aka.ms/OneDriveInstall if needed)
• OneDrive signed in with your work or school account

Method 1: Sync the SharePoint Library with OneDrive

Use this method if you want files available offline and to work with them directly in File Explorer like any other local folder.

Step 1: Navigate to the SharePoint document library

1. Open a web browser and go to office.com. Sign in with your work Microsoft 365 account if prompted.
2. Click the App launcher (the grid icon in the top-left corner), then select SharePoint.
3. On the SharePoint home page, find and click the site you want to access. Sites you visit frequently appear under Frequent sites; use the search bar at the top to find others by name.
4. Once on the site, click Documents in the left navigation (or the specific document library you want to sync).

Step 2: Start the sync

1. In the library toolbar, click Sync.

   If you don't see the Sync button, click the three dots (...) in the toolbar to find it.

2. A prompt will appear asking to open OneDrive. Click Open.
3. OneDrive will begin syncing the library to your computer.

Step 3: Locate the folder in File Explorer

1. Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
2. In the left panel, look for your organization's name (e.g., Allegheny Millwork) — the synced SharePoint library appears as a folder underneath it.

You can now open, edit, and save files directly from File Explorer. Changes sync automatically when you're connected to the internet.

Method 2: Add a Shortcut to OneDrive

Use this method if you want quick access without syncing all files locally. Files open on-demand rather than being stored on your hard drive.

Step 1: Navigate to the SharePoint document library

1. Open a browser and go to your SharePoint site.
2. Click Documents (or the library you want to add).

Step 2: Add the shortcut

1. In the library toolbar, click Add shortcut to OneDrive.

   If you don't see this option, click the three dots (...) in the toolbar.

2. A confirmation message will appear: "Shortcut added to My files."

Step 3: Find the shortcut in File Explorer

1. Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
2. In the left panel, click OneDrive – [Your Organization].
3. The shortcut to the SharePoint library appears in your OneDrive folder.

Pin to Quick Access for Faster Access (Optional)

Once the library appears in File Explorer (via either method above), you can pin it to Quick Access for one-click access from the top of the left panel:

1. Right-click the SharePoint folder in File Explorer.
2. Select Pin to Quick Access.

The folder will now appear at the top of your File Explorer sidebar.

Verify It Worked

• Open File Explorer and confirm the SharePoint library or shortcut appears in the left panel.
• Try opening a file — it should open in the appropriate Office application (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Edit and save the file. Confirm that changes appear in SharePoint via the browser.

Common Issues