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Map a Network Drive on Windows 11 [3 Different Ways]
Map Network Drive utility is the easiest way to do it
5 min. read
Updated onMay 30, 2024
updated onMay 30, 2024
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Mapping a network drive simplifies access to shared folders across different PCs, making it as seamless as local access. Learn how with Windows 11’s Map Network Drive tool, Command Prompt or Windows Powershell.
How can I map a network drive in Windows 11?
1. Utilize the Map Network Drive utility
2. Map a network drive with the Command Prompt
You’ll need to replaceDLetterin that command with an actual drive letter andPATHwith a real network folder location. With a drive letter and network path specified, the command will look more like this:
3. Map a network drive using Powershell
How do I enable network discovery for mapping drives?
You’ll need to have network discovery enabled on both the PC you’re using and the one that includes the shared folders.
You must also have network discovery enabled in Windows 11 to map a drive. Network discovery makes devices on your local network discoverable so they can find each other. This is how you can enable that feature.
How can I set up a shared folder?
You can only include shared folders for mapped drives. When a folder is shared, it will have a local network path you can enter in File Explorer to view it. This is how you can set up a shared folder in Windows 11:
Keep in mind that you should see a network path specified on the folder’sSharingtab when it’s shared.
How come Windows can’t access the network location?
If Windows can’t access the mapped drive’s location with network discovery turned on, you might need to enable SMB (Server Message Block). SMB is a protocol that needs to be enabled for drive mapping. This is how you can enable SMB within Windows 11:
Setting up mapped drives in Windows 11 with the Map Network Drive utility is relatively straightforward. You can also set up mapped drives with that tool in Windows 10 and 7 platforms, not to mention that you canmap network drives over VPN.
Map Network Drive hasn’t changed much in the latest platform. Users who often utilize the Command Prompt might prefer method two. There are also various other net use commands that you can enter to set up and configure mapped drives.
Overall, drive mapping is a handy network feature in Windows. With a mapped drive set up, you’ll have more direct access to its shared folder in File Explorer.
So, it’s a good idea to set up mapped drives for shared folders if you need to share files between two, or more, local PCs. Let us know your opinion in the comments area below.
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
