How to Create Public Link to Share Files in Salesforce (Guide + Real Use Cases)

In Salesforce, securely and efficiently sharing files is very important for daily business operations.

Many users want to share files with external users, such as clients, partners, or vendors, without granting them login access. This is where Public Link (File Sharing Link) in Salesforce becomes very useful.

I worked in an organization that uses Salesforce CRM. Our marketing team conducted a large industry event, and several partner companies requested access to the file shared at the event.

Instead of emailing large files to each partner, I uploaded the file to Salesforce and created a public link.

In this detailed guide, you will learn:

• What is a public link in Salesforce
• How to create a public link to share files
• Real-time business use cases
• Important security considerations
• Common mistakes to avoid

What is a Public Link in Salesforce?

A Public Link in Salesforce is a URL that allows you to share a file with anyone, even if they do not have access to Salesforce.

Features:

• No login required
• Can be accessed externally
• Controlled using permissions

Example: You upload a file (PDF, image, document) and generate a public link.
Now you can share that link via:

• Email
• WhatsApp
• Website

Why Use Public Links in Salesforce?

Public links are very useful in real-world scenarios.

1. Easy Sharing
   • No need to create users or give login access.
2. Saves Time
   • Quickly generate and share links.
3. External Access
   • Clients can access files without a Salesforce account.
4. Secure Control – You can control
   • Who can view
   • Whether the download is allowed

Real-Time Use Cases to Create a Public Link

1. Sharing Documents with Clients
   • Share the invoice PDF with the customer
   • Share the proposal document
2. Marketing Material Sharing
   • Brochures
   • Product catalogs
   • Presentations
3. Support Team Use Case
   • Share troubleshooting documents
   • Share user manuals
4. Recruitment Process
   • Share offer letters
   • Share onboarding documents

Enable Public Links in Salesforce

In the steps below, I have explained how to enable a public link, allowing us to send files and documents to other users as well.

On the home page, search for Content Deliveries in the Quick Find box. Then click Content Deliveries and Public Links. After that, check the checkbox to enable Public Links can be enabled for users.

Then we can choose password defaults for Content Deliveries. Here, we need to select the password protection requirement and then click the Save button.

In this way, we can enable content delivery and create public links to share files in Salesforce.

Create Public Link to Share Files in Salesforce

In the steps below, I explain how to create a public link to share files in Salesforce after enabling the Public Links feature.

1. Go to setup. The home page will open. Click the App Launcher, search for the Files tab, and open it.

2. After opening the File tab, click the Upload File button to upload the file for which you want to create a public link in Salesforce.

3. You can select any type of file format from your documents. Select the document, then click the Open button to upload the file.

4. After selecting the document, that file will get uploaded, and you need to click the Done button.

5. Now that the document has been added to Salesforce, we want to create a public link to share it.
   • To do so, click the dropdown arrow for the file you want to create a link for, then click the Public Link button.

6. Here, I don’t add the expiration date and password; I just click the Create Link button to create a public link that generates a URL that you can copy and share.
   • When you click the create link, you will see a warning alert that says anyone can view and download this document.

Salesforce Public Link Expiration Date and Password

7. The public link will be displayed in the link box after clicking the create link button. You can also add an expiration date and a password. We can add an Expiration Date to deactivate the public link on the selected date.

We can also set a password for security, so only users with the password can access this public link.

Then, you can copy this link by clicking the Copy Link button and share the link and password with anyone via email or any communication channel.

In this way, we can create a public link to share the document with anyone in Salesforce.

Public Link vs File Sharing in Salesforce

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Creating a public link in Salesforce is a simple yet powerful feature that allows you to share files with external users quickly and efficiently.

However, it is important to use this feature carefully, managing permissions and avoiding the sharing of sensitive data.

When used correctly, public links can improve collaboration, communication, and productivity in real-world business scenarios.

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Bijay Kumar

I am Bijay Kumar, the founder of SalesforceFAQs.com. Having over 10 years of experience working in salesforce technologies for clients across the world (Canada, Australia, United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, etc.). I am a certified salesforce administrator and expert with experience in developing salesforce applications and projects. My goal is to make it easy for people to learn and use salesforce technologies by providing simple and easy-to-understand solutions. Check out the complete profile on About us.