Accessing SharePoint Folders You Have Permission To

Accessing SharePoint Folders You Have Permission To

Why can't I see all the folders?

Our SharePoint sites use Microsoft security permissions to protect company information.

This means that SharePoint only displays folders and files that you have permission to access. If you don't see a folder, it does not necessarily mean you don't have access to it—it may simply be located inside another folder that isn't visible to you.


How to Access a Folder You Have Permission To

Option 1: Use the Direct Link (Recommended)

If someone has shared a folder with you, they should provide a direct link.

  1. Click the SharePoint link provided in the email or Teams message. (*always verify the sender is trusted or that this is expected activity before clicking on a link.)
  2. The folder will open automatically.
  3. For easier access in the future, add it to your Favorites or bookmark it in your browser.

Option 2: Use the Search Box

If you know the name of the folder or a document inside it:

  1. Open the SharePoint site.
  2. Use the Search box at the top of the page.
  3. Enter the folder name or part of a document name.
  4. Open the search result.

Note: Search results depend on SharePoint indexing. Newly created folders or files may not appear immediately.


Option 3: Open Through "Shared" in OneDrive

If a folder has been shared directly with you:

  1. Open a browser window and navigate to (https://portal.office.com).

  1. Open OneDrive
  2. Select Shared from the left menu.
  3. Locate the shared folder.
  4. Open it from there.

Option 4: Add a Shortcut to OneDrive

If you frequently use a shared folder:

  1. Open the shared folder using its direct link.
  2. Select Add shortcut to OneDrive from the toolbar.
  3. The folder will now appear in your OneDrive for easy access.

I Know I Have Access, But I Still Can't Find It

If you have been told you have permission to a folder but cannot locate it:

  • Ask the person who shared it to send you the direct SharePoint link.
  • Verify that you're signed in with your company Microsoft 365 account.
  • Refresh your browser or sign out and back in if your permissions were recently changed.

Need Help?

If you continue to have trouble accessing a SharePoint folder, please contact the IT Help Desk (support@blackhawkgroup.aero) and include:

  • The SharePoint site name
  • The name of the folder you're trying to access
  • The name of the person who granted access to you
  • A screenshot of any error message, you receive

Providing this information will help us resolve your issue more quickly.


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