How to Map a Network Drive - Windows 10

When Will I Need to Map a Network Drive?

• Depending on the network drive and user account, the following scenarios will require mapping a network drive.
  • When signing in to a University computer for the first time, most shared drives do not map automatically. 
  • Receiving access to a new shared drive.

Pre-Requisites

• Network drives are per user account. This means the computer MUST be signed in with the desired user account.
• The user must have access to the desired network drive. For access to a specific drive, please submit a hub ticket.
• Each network drive has a specific file path and is required to map it. If unsure of the file path, please submit a hub ticket.
• When granted access to a drive for the first time. The user MUST sign out and sign back in for changes to apply. 

How to Map a Network Drive - Windows 10

1. Click on the Start Menu.

2. Type in This PC and click Map network drive.

3. This screen should appear. Select the desired letter to assign the drive. Note some drives may be referred to as a specific letter internally. For example, some may refer a particular drive as the “X drive” or “Z drive.” Network drives can be assigned any letter.  The letter will not affect connection to the drive or the contents within the drive.  

4. Type in the path to the network drive. Note the path MUST be typed in EXACTLY as it appears. Do not forget to utilize back slashes and any special characters. If unsure of the file path, please submit a hub ticket. Leave Reconnect at sign-in checked off and Connect using different credentials unchecked. Click finish to connect to the drive.

5. If you see a window appear containing the desired network drive's contents, you are now connected!

How to Create Mapped Network Drive Desktop Shortcut - Windows 10

1. Click on the Start Menu.

2. Type in This PC and click Open.

3. Right click the desired network drive and click Create shortcut.

4. Additionally, clicking Pin to Quick access will pin any network drives to the quick access area of file explorer. Highlighted in green.