SharePoint Sync and Shortcuts

With the OneDrive Sync app, you are able to access your SharePoint documents from your File Explorer or Finder. This feature requires additional setup and offers two different options:

  • SharePoint Sync – Sync entire document libraries to your computer and have full control over which folders/files will appear.
  • SharePoint Shortcut – Create a temporary shortcut to a specific folder that is accessible through your personal OneDrive account.

Support Policy

MET IT is responsible for the following:

  • Set up assistance on BU-provisioned machines
  • General troubleshooting

Resources

Choose Folders to Sync
SharePoint Shortcut Guide
SharePoint Sync Guide
Status Icon Overview

SharePoint Sync Tips

When setting up SharePoint Sync for your computer, please follow these tips to improve performance:

  1. Perform your sync at the highest possible level in the folder structure.
    Don’t perform a sync for each individual folder you want to work with.

  2. Allow the sync process to complete entirely before using File Explorer or Finder.
    Use the Status Icon Overview to help identify when the sync is complete.

  3. Use the “Choose Folders” feature to clean up your sync to show just the folders that you want to have available on your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between SharePoint Sync and SharePoint Shortcut?

SharePoint Sync and SharePoint Shortcut have different functions, and different purposes.

  • SharePoint Sync:
    • Best used when syncing to a large number of folders for extended periods of time.
    • Connection made to individual devices; user must perform the sync manually for each device.
    • Control which folders are syncing using the “Choose Folders” function.

  • SharePoint Shortcut:
    • Best used when syncing a small number of individual folders; can be used for temporary folders or important folders.
    • Connection made to your BU OneDrive account; user may access from any device.
    • Unable to control which folders are syncing using the “Choose Folders” function.

Contact us if you would like guidance on what option to use.

I have an urgent work task and the SharePoint Sync is delayed. What should I do?

When working on tasks that have a time restriction, it is recommended to upload any file changes directly to SharePoint through your web browser.