In this article, we show you how to easily create a download link for SharePoint content. Although there is no native function for this in Microsoft 365, you only need to make simple changes to the link. This trick also works for OneDrive content.
Do you know the problem?
You want to share a download link Link to a SharePoint document - but instead of a direct download, the document simply opens in the browser. The recipient first has to manually click on "Download", which is impractical, especially with external partners or in automated processes.
Fortunately, there's a simple trick: with a small adjustment to the link, you can easily create a real direct download link ideal for emails, websites or tools with automated processes.
And this is how it all works:
Step-by-step guide to the download link
1. Log in to SharePoint or OneDrive with your access data. Then select the file for which you would like to create a direct download link.
2. Click on the share symbol next to the file name. To open the share menu for the selected file.
3. Click on the authorisation field in the "Send link" window. Here you can specify who has access to the link.
4. Select the option "Everyone with the link" and confirm with "Apply". This is the only way to enable direct download without login or individual authorisation.
5. Click on the "Copy link" icon at the bottom of the sharing window. The link will now be copied to your clipboard - you can continue editing it straight away.
6. Open a text editing programmefor example Notepad, Editor, Microsoft Word or any tool with which you can easily edit text.
7. Paste the copied SharePoint link into the document. This allows you to keep an overview and easily customise the URL.
8. Replace the part of the URL after the question mark with download=1.
In this example, you would replace "e=i3RkU6" with "download=1".
9.Copy the customised link with download=1. So you have it ready to hand for further use.
10. Open the page or tool on which you want to insert the download link. For example, a blog article, a website, an email or an internal workspace.
11. Insert the link as a hyperlink. Link it to a button or text, e.g. "Download now" or "Open PDF".
12. Save the changes and test the link. This will ensure that the direct download starts as desired when you click.
Conclusion
In Microsoft SharePoint and OneDrive, a direct download link is not provided by default. However, this can be easily avoided with the simple trick from this article - the link then no longer opens the document, but starts the download directly.
Curious?
Every week, we share short, actionable tips on Microsoft 365, automation, AI & Co.
Sign up for our newsletter - so that you don't miss anything.
German 
English