How to Map a Network Drive in Windows

A mapped drive is a shortcut to the specific drive on a different device that enables you to access resources shared on a local network, or files on a FTP server or website.

It looks just like the shortcut on your local hard drive with its own letter, even opening as though it were on the drive, but the files are physically stored on a different computer or device altogether.

Mapping is different from mounting a drive as it allows you to open remote files as though they were stored on your own computer, while mounting allows you to open a file as if it were a folder.

The main limitation with using a mapped network drive is that it depends on a working network, so if it’s down, or the connection isn’t working properly, you can’t access the files in the mapped drive.

How To Map a Network Drive On Windows 10

We’ll show you two ways of mapping a network drive in Windows 10: Using File Explorer and using Command Prompt.

Note: If this is your first network drive, you’ll see one on the drive list. If you have several network drives, you’ll see several of them when you click the Browse button.

Note: If your NAS device has a username and password, you may need to enter it to access the drive.

Note: If you’re unable to map a network folder or drive, check whether the computer you’re trying to connect to is turned off, or check whether you have the correct permissions. You can also check with your network administrator.

You’ll see the network drive listed on the sidebar in File Explorer underThis PC. From here, you can open it and drag files such as documents, media or others to it. You can also copy/cut and paste as you would with other files and folders.

When you’re done with the mapped drive and don’t need it anymore, just right-click on it and selectDisconnect.

Using Command Prompt to Map a Network Drive Windows 10

An advanced way of working with a mapped drive in Windows is by using the net use command in Windows, or in PowerShell if you prefer.

How To Map a Network Drive On Windows 7, 8 & XP

Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 7 as of January 2020, but you can upgrade to Windows 10 so you can get regular security updates and tech support.

Were you able to map your network drive using the steps we’ve covered in this guide? Tell us in a comment below.

Elsie is a technology writer and editor with a special focus on Windows, Android and iOS. She writes about software, electronics and other tech subjects, her ultimate goal being to help people out with useful solutions to their daily tech issues in a simple, straightforward and unbiased style. She has a BCom degree in Marketing and currently pursuing her Masters in Communications and New Media.Read Elsie’s Full Bio

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How to Map a Network Drive in Windows#

How To Map a Network Drive On Windows 10#

Using Command Prompt to Map a Network Drive Windows 10#

How To Map a Network Drive On Windows 7, 8 & XP#