Dropbox: This folder can only be shared as a link because it’s in a shared folder

Environment

U-M Dropbox

Issue

You are trying to share a subfolder within a shared folder and receive the following error message: "This folder can only be shared as a link because the parent folder is a shared folder."

Resolution

You can share a subfolder that’s inside a shared folder. However, these folders have different rules and behaviors to keep in mind when sharing.

Depending on your level of access to a shared folder, you can share a subfolder inside of that shared folder:

  • If you’re the owner of the parent shared folder, you automatically own all subfolders, so you can share any subfolders within the parent folder.
  • If you have edit access to the parent shared folder, you may be able to share a subfolder within it if the owner grants you access to do so.
    • The owner must have the following folder setting selected for editors to share subfolders in a specific shared folder: Folder settings > Manage access > Team members who can edit.
  • If you have view access to the parent shared folder, you can only share a subfolder within it via a view-only link.

Additional Information

Shared Folder FAQ

Need additional information or assistance? Contact the ITS Service Center.

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This article explains why you may receive the following Dropbox error message when trying to share a private folder: "This can only be shared with the link."