Files & permissions support
“Access denied” on a shared folder?
Can’t open a shared folder, a drive letter has disappeared, or a teammate’s link says you need permission. Find out whether it’s access, the connection or the link.
Step by step
Check these six things, in this order.
Read the message carefully
“You need permission” means your account isn’t allowed in. “Network path not found” means your computer can’t reach the server. They need different fixes.
Check you’re signed in with your work account
Shared links in OneDrive, SharePoint and Google Drive only work for the account they were shared with. A personal account in the browser is a common cause.
Request access from the link
OneDrive, SharePoint and Google Drive show a Request access button. The owner gets an email and can approve it in one click.
Office server: check you’re on the network
Network drives only work in the office or over the company VPN. Connect the VPN first, then open the drive again.
Reconnect the drive letter
Windows: File Explorer › This PC › Map network drive, then enter the path IT gave you, like \\server\shared. Tick Reconnect at sign-in.
Sign out and back in after access is granted
New permissions are often only picked up at your next sign-in. Restart the computer if the folder still says access denied.
Questions
Shared folder FAQ
- Why do I get “access denied” on a shared folder?
- Your account isn’t allowed in yet, you’re signed in with the wrong account, or your new access hasn’t applied until you sign in again.
- Why did my network drive disappear?
- You’re outside the office without VPN, the server is down, or the saved drive mapping was lost. Reconnect it from Map network drive.
- Who can give me access?
- The folder’s owner or your IT admin. In OneDrive, SharePoint and Google Drive, use Request access so the owner gets a one-click approval.
- Can you set up shared folders properly for our team?
- Yes. We set up team folders with access by group, so new starters get the right access on day one and leavers lose it.
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