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.

Anonymous links (also known as “Anyone with the link” sharing) allow documents or folders to be accessed without requiring the recipient to sign in. This option is restricted in our tenant and may not be available by default.

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: Check if “Anyone with the link” is available

  1. Navigate to the file or folder in SharePoint or Teams.

  2. Right-click the item and select Copy Link.

  3. In the link dialog that appears, click Settings (gear icon or text link depending on interface).

  4. Under Link settings, check if “Anyone with the link” is selectable.

    • If greyed out, proceed to Step 2 to request access.

    • If available, continue to Step 3.

 

Step 2: Request activation of “Anyone with the link” sharing

If the “Anyone” option is unavailable (greyed out), a SharePoint Administrator must enable it for the site or document library.

  • Site Owners should submit a TeamDynamix Service Request including:

    • A brief business justification.

    • The URL of the site or document library.

    • If you are not a site owner, include confirmation of site owner's approval for anonymous sharing.

Note: Not all requests will be approved. Anonymous links should only be used when absolutely necessary and when no personally identifiable, sensitive, or regulated data is involved.

 

Step 3: Create your anonymous sharing link (after access is enabled)

Once the option is available:

  1. Select the file or folder (click the circle next to the item).

  2. Right-click and select Copy Link.

  3. Click Settings in the dialog.

  4. Select “Anyone with the link” and set any additional controls, such as:

    • View or Edit access.

    • Expiration date (recommended)

    • Password protection, if required.

  5. Click Apply, then copy and distribute the link securely.

Important: Even if “Copy Link” appears to work immediately, it will default to “People with existing access” unless you manually modify the link settings.
 

Step 4 - Follow best practices when creating your anonymous link

1. Limit Sharing Permissions

  • Set links to view-only unless editing is absolutely necessary.
  • Use expiration dates for the links to limit long-term access.
  • Avoid sharing sensitive or confidential content using anonymous links.
  • Sharing individual files is preferable to entire folders to manage access more easily.
  • Apply password protection if supported, adding an extra layer of security.

2. Monitor and Audit Access 

  • Regularly review shared links using the “Manage Access” feature in SharePoint or the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
  • Revoke anonymous links that are no longer needed.
     

See also 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.  

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