Copy as Link

I am entirely un-satisfied by this answer. The reason is simply that the procedure for creating a link in Windows 11 cannot be completed. I can get as far as selecting the share icon at the top of the screen, and the dialog opens. But it does not contain a "copy link" button as described. As the only reason I use OneDrive is to be able to send links to files that are too large to attach to emails, as I used to do in Windows 10, this is a pretty serious downgrade. I would appreciate some relevant help.

Dear @Nancy Slater,

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Q&A Forum. 

I understand that you're looking to copy a file as a link in Windows 11. This is a very common task, but the method for copying a file "as a link" depends on whether you want to create a:

• Shared Cloud Link: A URL for sharing (best for OneDrive/SharePoint files).
• Local Shortcut: A file that, when clicked, opens the original file (best for local files on your PC).

The core issue is that Windows has two different ways to handle "links" to files. This is how you do it:

1.Local Shortcut

If the file is on your local PC (e.g., in your Documents folder) and you want a link that works only on your PC, you create a shortcut file (.lnk).

• Locate the File: Navigate to the original file or document in File Explorer.
• Right-Click and Drag: Right-click on the file and drag it to the desired new location.
• Release: When you release the mouse button, a context menu will appear.
• Select Create shortcuts here.

A new file with the original name and a small arrow icon will appear. This is your link; double-clicking it opens the original file.

2.Cloud Link 

If the file is in a cloud service like OneDrive (the most likely scenario in Microsoft 365), you copy a URL that allows others to access the file over the internet.

• Locate the File: Navigate to the file in your OneDrive folder
• Right-Click: Right-click on the file.
• Select Share/Copy Link:
• Modern Windows 11/OneDrive Menu: Select Share (the icon with a box and arrow). A window will open where you can click the Copy Link button.
• Older Menu/Context Menu: Select OneDrive > Copy Link.
• Paste: You now have a URL link that can be pasted into another document, an email, a Teams chat, or a web browser.

I hope this information helps clarify the situation and provides you with workable solutions. Should you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're always here to help. Have a wonderful day!

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