How to map a network drive in Windows

Mapping a network drive assigns a drive letter to a shared folder so it behaves like a local disk in File Explorer and in applications. A consistent drive letter makes shared storage easier to reach from shortcuts, scripts, and line-of-business apps.

Windows maps drives over SMB using a UNC path such as \\fileserver\department. The mapping is stored per user and shown under This PC, and it can be restored automatically at sign-in when Reconnect at sign-in is enabled.

Successful mapping depends on share permissions, network reachability, and the credentials used for the connection. Cached credentials or existing connections to the same server can cause authentication failures until cleared, and off-site access may require a VPN before internal file servers are reachable.

Related: How to access a shared folder in Windows
Related: How to turn Network Discovery on or off in Windows

Steps to map a network drive in Windows 11:

  1. Open File Explorer using Win + E.
  2. Select This PC in the left pane.
  3. Click the See more (three dots) menu and choose Map network drive.

    On Windows 10, open the Computer tab and select Map network drive.

  4. Choose a drive letter from the Drive list.
  5. Enter the share path in the Folder field. 
    \\fileserver\department

    Use a UNC path (\\server\share) rather than a web URL, and include subfolders when needed (\\server\share\folder).

  6. (Optional) Enable Reconnect at sign-in to remap the drive automatically after reboot.
  7. (Optional) Enable Connect using different credentials to authenticate with a different account.

    Existing connections to the same server using different credentials can block mapping until the old connection or cached credentials are removed.

  8. Click Finish to create the mapping.
  9. Enter the share credentials when prompted.

    Use DOMAIN\username, username@domain, or SERVER\username when the default Windows sign-in does not have access.

    Selecting Remember my credentials caches the password in Windows Credential Manager and can grant future access from the same Windows account.

    Related: How to clear saved credentials for network share in Windows

  10. Confirm the mapped drive appears under This PC.

    Opening the mapped drive is the quickest proof the connection and permissions are working; a repeated credential prompt usually indicates incorrect or cached credentials.