External Access to Sharepoint Problem

When an external user tries to open a SharePoint link, Microsoft asks them for a verification code. Some people think it’s a password, but it’s not, it’s just a one‑time code to confirm their identity.

You didn’t turn this on. It’s automatically built into SharePoint for security.

Here’s what the external user normally experiences:

1. They click the link you shared
2. They enter the same email address you shared it with
3. Microsoft emails them a one‑time verification code
4. They enter the code and get access

This is how Microsoft checks that the right person is opening the link.

Why the user might not be able to access

1. They’re using a different email address

If you shared with email address removed for privacy reasons, but they try to open it using email address removed for privacy reasons, it won’t work.

2. The verification code email went to spam/junk

This is extremely common.

3. Their organisation blocks external sharing

Some companies have strict IT rules that prevent employees from opening external links.

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