Need to share a Drive file with someone outside your workspace? Generate a public link in Workly — optionally protected by a password and expiry date.
Create a public link
- Select the file
- Click Share to open the dialog
- Switch to the Link tab
- Optionally set a password
- Optionally set an expiry date
- Click the action to generate the link
- Copy the link and share it
The dialog displays an “Anyone with the link” indicator so you always know what kind of access you’re granting.
Files only
Public links are available for individual files, not folders. If you need to share a folder externally, share the contents file-by-file or invite the recipient as a workspace user.
Password and expiry
- Password — Recipients must enter the password before they can view the file
- Expiry date — After the date passes, the link stops working
Use both for the most sensitive content.
Revoke a link
Open the Share dialog and remove the link to revoke external access immediately. Anyone holding the URL won’t be able to open the file once it’s revoked.
Best practices
- Set an expiry date for everything that doesn’t need to live forever
- Share the password through a different channel than the link
- For internal teammates, prefer the User, Project, or Workspace tabs over public links
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a public link to a file?
Open the Share dialog, go to the Link tab, optionally set a password and expiry, then generate and copy the link.
Can I share a folder via public link?
No — public links are available for individual files only. To share a folder externally, send files individually or invite the recipient to your workspace.
How do I add a password to a public link?
In the Share dialog Link tab, enter a password before generating the link. Recipients will need to enter it to view the file.
How do I revoke a public link?
Open the Share dialog and remove the link entry. Access is revoked immediately for anyone holding the URL.
Can a public link expire automatically?
Yes. In the Link tab, set an expiry date when generating the link. After that date the link stops working.
