How to Add Sharepoint to File Explorer: A Quick Guide

Struggling to access your SharePoint files quickly? You’re not alone! Many users find SharePoint convenient for collaboration but miss the simplicity of managing files directly in File Explorer. The good news? You can connect SharePoint to File Explorer and experience a familiar file management system while keeping your cloud storage intact. Whether you're working on a team project or managing multiple folders, this connection can save time and effort. 

In this blog, you’ll discover How to Add SharePoint to File Explorer in just a few steps. This method enables you to access and manage SharePoint files as if they were stored directly on your device. Say goodbye to navigating through endless browser tabs—sync your files effortlessly and work more efficiently! 

Table of Contents 

1) What Is File Explorer? 

2) How to Add a SharePoint Document Library to File Explorer? 

3) SharePoint View in File Explorer 

4) Limitations of Accessing SharePoint Through File Explorer 

5) Troubleshooting Adding SharePoint To File Explorer 

6) Difference between View In File Explorer and Sync 

7) Conclusion 

What is File Explorer? 

File Explorer is Windows's default file management tool, offering an intuitive way to navigate, organise, and access files and folders stored on your computer or network drives. It provides a structured interface that allows users to move, copy, delete, and manage files seamlessly.  

By linking Microsoft Sharepoint to File Explorer, users can integrate cloud-based files with their local environment making it easier to work with documents without constantly switching between browsers and desktop applications. This enhances productivity, reduces the need for multiple clicks, and streamlines document handling.

How to Add a SharePoint Document Library to File Explorer? 

Adding a SharePoint document library to File Explorer makes it easier to manage files without opening a browser. This approach provides a local-like experience while storing files in the cloud, ensuring that team members always work with the latest versions of documents. 

Why Add SharePoint to File Explorer? 

Adding SharePoint to File Explorer allows you to access and manage SharePoint documents seamlessly, just like files stored on your local device. This integration offers several benefits: 

a) Allows seamless access to SharePoint files without opening a web browser. 

b) Enables easy file transfers between local storage and SharePoint. 

c) Provides a familiar interface for managing cloud-based documents. 

d) Enhances offline access so you can work on files without an internet connection. 

How to Link SharePoint to File Explorer? 

Follow these steps to connect your SharePoint library to File Explorer: 

1) Open SharePoint in your web browser and go to the document library you want to add. 

2) Click the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner and choose Library settings. 

3) Click More Library Settings and find the View in File Explorer option. 

4) If using Microsoft Edge, ensure you enable the feature through browser settings. 

5) Once enabled, click Open in File Explorer, and your SharePoint library will appear like a local folder. 

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SharePoint View in File Explorer 

The View in File Explorer feature allows users to open and manage SharePoint document libraries directly in Windows File Explorer. This method provides a more familiar experience for users accustomed to handling files on their local drives. However, enabling this feature requires certain settings to be configured on both the browser and the system. 

Enable View in File Explorer 

To enable the View in File Explorer option, you need to use Microsoft Edge and ensure the following settings are configured: 

1) Open Microsoft Edge and navigate to your SharePoint library. 

2) Click the gear icon and select Library settings. 

3) Scroll down to Advanced Settings and enable View in File Explorer. 

4) Save changes and restart Edge if necessary. 

Set the Registry Key on the Client 

If you’re unable to view SharePoint files in File Explorer, you may need to modify the Windows Registry: 

1) Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. 

2) Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftEdge. 

3) Locate or create the EnableViewInFileExplorer key. 

4) Set the key’s value to 1, then close the Registry Editor. 

5) Restart your computer to apply the changes. 

Reload Edge Policies 

Sometimes, changes in browser settings or registry modifications do not take effect immediately. To apply them: 

1) Open Microsoft Edge and type edge://policy/ in the address bar. 

2) Click Reload Policies to ensure all new settings are activated. 

3) Restart Edge and check if the View in File Explorer option is available. 

Add SharePoint to File Explorer 

After completing the steps above: 

1) Open your SharePoint document library in Microsoft Edge. 

2) Click View in File Explorer. 

3) The SharePoint folder will open in File Explorer, allowing easy access to cloud files. 

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Limitations of Accessing SharePoint Through File Explorer 

While adding SharePoint to File Explorer is convenient, it has certain SharePoint Limitations.

1) Requires Edge 

This feature is only supported in Microsoft Edge, limiting browser flexibility. 

2) No Automatic Sync  

Unlike the OneDrive sync, changes made in File Explorer may not update SharePoint immediately. 

3) Security Restrictions 

Some organisations enforce policies that block File Explorer access to SharePoint. 

4) Performance Issues  

Large document libraries may take time to load and navigate. 

Troubleshooting Adding SharePoint to File Explorer 

Encountering issues while trying to add SharePoint to File Explorer? You're not alone! Several factors, including browser settings, Cloud Security measures, security restrictions, and outdated software, can prevent seamless integration. If you can’t see the View in File Explorer option or your SharePoint files won’t open in File Explorer, don’t worry—there are solutions. 

Common Fixes to Try 

Here are some quick solutions to resolve common issues when adding SharePoint to File Explorer. Follow these steps to troubleshoot and restore seamless access to your SharePoint files. 

a) Use Microsoft Edge: This feature works best in Edge, so switch from Chrome or Firefox. 

b) Enable View in File Explorer: Check if the option is enabled in SharePoint settings. 

c) Update Windows and Edge: Running outdated software may cause compatibility issues. 

d) Restart Your Computer: A simple reboot can resolve minor glitches. 

e) Modify Registry Settings: Ensure the correct registry key (EnableViewInFileExplorer) is set. 

f) Check IT Policies: Organisational restrictions might block access; contact your IT team for help. 

If all else fails, consider syncing SharePoint with OneDrive, which offers better offline functionality. 

Difference Between View in File Explorer and Sync 

Many users confuse View in File Explorer and Sync in SharePoint. Here’s how they differ: 

If you need long-term access with automatic syncing, syncing with OneDrive is the better choice. However, if you only need quick access for a session, View in File Explorer works well. 

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Conclusion 

Learning How to Add SharePoint to File Explorer provides a local-like experience for managing cloud files, enhancing workflow efficiency. Whether using View in File Explorer or OneDrive sync, this setup saves time and boosts productivity, especially for frequent file transfers or offline access. 

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