Problem

Consider the following scenario.

  • You share a Microsoft SharePoint resource. In the Invite people dialog box, you specify a distribution list or a dynamic distribution list.

  • An external user invite is sent to the group. One user accepts the invitation and can access the shared resource.

  • When other users in the group try to access the shared resource, they receive one of the following messages:

    • Access Denied

    • You need permission to access this site.

    • Let us know why you need access to this site.

    • User is not found in the directory

Solution

To resolve this issue, use one of the following methods, depending on your specific scenario:

More Information

This issue occurs because distribution lists aren't supported methods for assigning SharePoint permissions. When you share with a distribution list, the first user who accepts the invitation receives access to the resource as an external user. 

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