Mapping a network drive in Windows 11 allows you to access shared files and folders on another computer or server as if they were stored on your local machine. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Guide to Map a Network Drive
- Open File Explorer:
- Press
Win + Eor click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.
- Press
- Access the Network Drive Tool:
- Click on This PC in the left navigation pane.
- At the top, select Map Network Drive in the ribbon menu under the Computer tab. If the ribbon is hidden, click the three dots (
...) and select Map Network Drive.
- Choose a Drive Letter:
- In the Map Network Drive window, choose an unused drive letter from the drop-down menu.
- Enter the Folder Path:
- Enter the network path to the shared folder, e.g.,
\\ServerName\SharedFolder. - Alternatively, click Browse… to locate the shared folder.
- Enter the network path to the shared folder, e.g.,
- Set Connection Options:
- Check Reconnect at sign-in if you want the drive to stay mapped after restarting.
- If you need to use different credentials, check Connect using different credentials.
- Authenticate:
- If prompted, enter the username and password for the network resource.
- Finish the Process:
- Click Finish to complete the mapping. The shared folder will now appear as a drive under This PC in File Explorer.
Unmapping a Network Drive
- To disconnect a mapped drive, right-click the drive in This PC, then select Disconnect.
Tips:
- Ensure Network Discovery is Enabled:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network discovery and ensure it is turned on.
- Use a Static IP:
- If the network drive’s location is tied to an IP address, ensure it is static to prevent losing access after a router restart.
Let me know if you need help with advanced configurations!