Accessing a Network Drive

Written by Barry Dysert (last updated February 12, 2018)

If you're on a network, chances are that your network administrator has enabled some resources to be shared. Disk drives, or at least certain folders, are likely among the shared resources. If you want to access a network drive, there are a couple of ways to do it.

One way to access a network drive is to specify a UNC path to the shared folder. (UNC stands for Uniform Naming Convention.) This path is specified like: "\\machine\folder\folder..." for whatever folders are along the path. For example, I have my system automatically backed up to a network server named "demetrius." This machine contains a shared folder under "\oberonshare\Users\bdysert." I created a folder under there called "PC Backups." So to access my folder I invoke Windows Explorer and in the address box I enter (without the quotes) the following:

\\demetrius\oberonshare\Users\bdysert

After pressing Enter I can see the contents of the folder (PC Backups) the same as any other folder on my local computer. (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1. Windows Explorer showing a UNC path.

If you access a network drive somewhat frequently, you may find it useful to map a drive letter to the network drive to avoid having to type the UNC name all the time. To do this, start Windows Explorer (Windows 7) or File Explorer (Windows 8 or Windows 10) and select Map Network Drive from the Tools menu. Windows displays the Map Network Drive dialog box, into which you should enter the UNC path to the folder and specify what drive letter you want associated with that folder. (See Figure 2.)

Figure 2. Mapping a network folder.

After clicking Finish I'll have a new drive called "X:" From then on I can just type "X:" (without the quotes) in the Explorer address box to gain access to my network folder.

 This tip (12243) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Author Bio

Barry Dysert

Barry has been a computer professional for over 35 years, working in different positions such as technical team leader, project manager, and software developer. He is currently a software engineer with an emphasis on developing custom applications under Microsoft Windows. When not working with Windows or writing Tips, Barry is an amateur writer. His first non-fiction book is titled "A Chronological Commentary of Revelation." ...

MORE FROM BARRY

Understanding User Account Control

User Account Control is a security mechanism that defends against malware or accidents from making system-level changes ...

Discover More

Editing a Media Player Playlist

Windows Media Player lets you create, edit, and delete playlists over time. This tip explains how to add and delete items ...

Discover More

Understanding Types of DVDs

There are several types of DVDs on the market. This tip explains the various types and how you might use them.

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Understanding Compressed Folders

If you're running low on disk space, you may want to consider creating some compressed folders to give you a little ...

Discover More

Displaying Hidden and System Files in a Folder

Files (and folders) can be marked hidden so that you don't see them in Windows Explorer. This tip tells you how to ...

Discover More

Arranging Desktop Icons Automatically

Is your desktop getting messy, with icons strewn everywhere? One way to help manage the plethora of icons on your desktop ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 6 - 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)


Newest Tips