SharePoint: Sharing files with Anonymous links

Summary

This article explains how to enable folder/file sharing files using anonymous links regardless of whether or not a user has a Microsoft 365 account, or SharePoint account.

 

How-To

Task: To enable folder and file sharing using anonymous links.

 

Note: To complete the procedure referenced in Step 3, the Anyone with the link option must be activated. Refer to the table below to determine if the option is activated/deactivate in your environment. If it is deactivated (greyed out), proceed to Step 2. If it is activated, then proceed to Step 3.

 

Anyone with the link Option Status
Application Status
OneDrive for Business Activated 
SharePoint Deactivated by default(Can be requested Service - SharePoint (unh.edu))
Teams Deactivated by default(Can be requested Service - SharePoint (unh.edu))

Note: SharePoint sites are accessible to everyone within USNH if invited by site owner. This procedure is for sharing links anonymously. If you are looking for sharing files and folders with external collaborators requiring a username and password instructions are on this Article - SharePoint: Guest Sharing -... (usnh.edu).

 

Instructions

Step 1 - Confirm Anyone is greyed out via copy link (right click on the document/folder, choose copy link, then click settings) from SharePoint/Teams folders:

Screenshot of Manage Access in SharePoint

Step 2 - Create a service request to have the Anyone with a link option activated.

Step 3 - Provide a link to your external collaborators using Share OneDrive files and folders - Microsoft Support.

 

Outcome

All those that receive the link to your shared files/folders have access.

 

Further Readings

Microsoft - Procedures for sharing OneDrive or SharePoint files/folders

Website, Mobile & SharePoint Development & Design - Request Service

 

Need additional help?

For assistance concerning site creation, content sharing, file synchronization, or other common SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams, or Office app activities, we recommend our Microsoft 365 Learning sites:

Learn more about the great tools our Microsoft 365 Learning sites offer!

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.