Environment
U-M Dropbox, Dropbox desktop app
Issue
How do I access the Dropbox folder in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS)?
Resolution
By default, Dropbox will automatically open files/folders in the Dropbox folder in File Explorer/Finder when you open them with the Dropbox desktop app installed on your computer.
The Dropbox desktop app must be running on your computer before you will see it in your system tray/menu bar.
Caution: Do not attempt to rename the root folder, "Dropbox (University of Michigan)." Renaming the folder will cause it to unsync from Dropbox and create a new folder separate from your account. The next time you resync your device to your U-M Dropbox account, it will recreate the root folder with the original name ("Dropbox (University of Michigan)") and sync there instead.
There are a few ways to access the folder on your computer, depending on your operating system.
Mac
Note: Your device must be running macOS 12.5 or later to use the latest version of Dropbox for macOS. Your Dropbox folder is located under ~/Library/CloudStorage.
- Click the Dropbox icon in your menu bar, and then click the folder icon at the top of the pop-up.
- Open Finder from the Launchpad and select "Dropbox (University of Michigan)" from the left sidebar.
Windows
- Click the Dropbox icon in your taskbar/system tray and click the folder icon at the top of the pop-up.
- Open File Explorer from the Start menu and select "Dropbox (University of Michigan)" from the left sidebar.
Additional Information
For more information, refer to Find the Dropbox Folder on a computer and Dropbox: Best Practices for Accessing Your Data.
Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.