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Overview
This article explains how to sync files from a Microsoft Teams channel or SharePoint document library to File Explorer. Once synced, you can access your files directly from your computer without opening Microsoft Teams or SharePoint each time.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure you have:
- A Northwood Tech account.
- Access to a Microsoft Teams team or SharePoint site.
- Microsoft Teams.
- Microsoft OneDrive installed and signed in.
- An internet connection.
What Does Sync Do?
Syncing a Teams or SharePoint document library creates a shortcut to the files in File Explorer using Microsoft OneDrive. This allows you to:
- Access files directly from File Explorer.
- Work with files using desktop applications.
- Access files offline (after they've been synced).
- Automatically synchronize changes between your computer and Microsoft Teams or SharePoint.
💡 Tip: Changes you make to synced files are automatically synchronized with Microsoft Teams and SharePoint once your device reconnects to the internet.
Instructions
Sync a Teams Channel to File Explorer
Sync a Teams channel so its files appear in File Explorer.
- Open Microsoft Teams.
- Navigate to the Team and Channel you want to sync.
- Click the Files tab.
- Click Sync.
- If prompted, click Open Microsoft OneDrive.
- Wait for the message confirming your files are syncing.
- Click Open File Explorer or open File Explorer manually.
- Locate the synced folder under your Northwood Tech - OneDrive location in the navigation pane.
📝 Note: The first synchronization may take several minutes depending on the number and size of the files.
⭐ Best Practice: Sync only the Teams or SharePoint libraries you use regularly to keep File Explorer organized and reduce unnecessary storage usage.
Troubleshooting
I don't see the Sync button
- Verify you have permission to access the Team or SharePoint site.
- Confirm you're viewing the Files tab.
- Refresh Microsoft Teams and try again.
My files aren't appearing in File Explorer
- Verify Microsoft OneDrive is running and signed in.
- Wait a few minutes for the initial synchronization to complete.
- Restart Microsoft Teams and File Explorer.
My files aren't syncing
- Verify your internet connection.
- Check that Microsoft OneDrive is signed in with your Northwood Tech account.
- Restart Microsoft OneDrive and allow it to resume syncing.
I'm still experiencing issues
- Restart your computer.
- Install any available Microsoft Teams and OneDrive updates.
- Submit a Service Desk ticket if the issue persists.