SharePoint Hidden Settings Pages: Microsoft recently released their new “Communication” sites, which are available for selection when using the self-service site creation option via SharePoint Home (clicking “Create Site” on the page where you view sites you’re following, recently accessed, etc.).
Unlike most other site templates, you’re NOT able to activate the site collection-level ‘SharePoint Server Publishing Infrastructure’ feature within a Communication site, which provide useful additions such as dynamic navigation and the Content & Structure page.
The lack of navigation options isn’t a big deal, because Communication sites only come with a top link bar, and are not likely to have a huge number of sub-sites, but not being able to access Content & Structure can be frustrating if you need to move sub-sites around, or easily move content from one list or library to another.
Even through this option only becomes available on the Site Settings page once you activate the Publishing Infrastructure feature, you can still access it by simply appending “_layouts/15/sitemanager.aspx” at the end of the site’s URL.
E.g. https://[your tenant or web app]/sites/comms/_layouts/15/sitemanager.aspx
The same trick can be used to access the SharePoint hidden settings pages which allows you to save a site as a template (_layouts/15/savetmpl.aspx), as this option disappears from the Site Settings once you have activated the Publishing Infrastructure feature.
You can also specify which site templates can be used when creating sub-sites below any type of parent site (_layouts/15/areatemplatesettings.aspx), even though the Page Layouts & Site Templates option only appears on the Site Settings page of publishing sites.
There’s plenty of other examples of this same trick available, so if you’re able to access a page from one site’s settings but not another, simply copy and paste the last part of the URL across!
You can find more tips and tricks on the 3grow Yammer Network, so feel free to join if you’re a Yammer user!
Unlock Hidden SharePoint Features with These Advanced Tips
If you’re looking to make the most out of SharePoint and access advanced functionality that isn’t readily visible, there are several hidden features and tricks that can elevate your SharePoint experience. Here are a few more SharePoint tips and tricks to add to your toolbox:
1. Accessing the “Site Permissions” Page Directly
Struggling to find the page to manage your SharePoint site’s permissions? Skip the navigation headache and go straight to the permissions settings by appending:_layouts/15/user.aspx
Example:https://[your tenant]/sites/[site-name]/_layouts/15/user.aspx
This will take you directly to the page where you can view, add, or modify user permissions — saving you time and streamlining your workflow.
2. Quickly Check All Site Collection Features
Some SharePoint features are enabled at the site collection level, and accessing them can be a hassle. Jump straight to the Site Collection Features page by adding:_layouts/15/ManageFeatures.aspx
Example:https://[your tenant]/sites/[site-name]/_layouts/15/ManageFeatures.aspx
From here, you can enable features like SharePoint Server Publishing, Document ID Service, and more with just a few clicks.
3. View All Site Content in One Place
Need to see all the content on your site at once? Use the following link to access the All Site Content page:_layouts/15/viewlsts.aspx
Example:https://[your tenant]/sites/[site-name]/_layouts/15/viewlsts.aspx
This is especially useful for administrators or power users who need to manage multiple lists, libraries, and subsites efficiently.
Hidden Gems in SharePoint Site Settings
SharePoint’s Site Settings is a treasure trove of options that can enhance your productivity and simplify site management. Here are some additional settings pages you can access directly for improved functionality:
4. Site Master Pages and Layouts
If you’re working with a publishing site and need to customize its look and feel, navigate directly to the Master Page settings page:_layouts/15/ChangeSiteMasterPage.aspx
Example:https://[your tenant]/sites/[site-name]/_layouts/15/ChangeSiteMasterPage.aspx
This allows you to apply a custom master page or use alternate CSS files to brand your site.
5. Manage Workflow Settings
Working with workflows? Access the Workflow Settings page for your site directly:_layouts/15/wrksetng.aspx
Example:https://[your tenant]/sites/[site-name]/_layouts/15/wrksetng.aspx
Here, you can configure workflows, monitor their progress, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
6. Audit Log Reports
For administrators looking to track user activity and site changes, the Audit Log Reports page is invaluable. Go to:_layouts/15/Reporting.aspx?Category=Auditing
Example:https://[your tenant]/sites/[site-name]/_layouts/15/Reporting.aspx?Category=Auditing
This page gives you detailed reports on actions like document edits, user access, and permissions changes.
Pro Tip: Bookmark Your Most-Used Settings Pages
Instead of remembering URLs for these hidden settings pages, bookmark them for easy access. Whether you’re an administrator or a power user, these shortcuts can significantly boost your productivity and make navigating SharePoint far more efficient.