A step-by-step guide to connecting shared folders and network resources in Windows.
Introduction
Mapping a network drive allows you to access shared folders on a file server, NAS device, or another computer as if they were local drives on your PC. Once mapped, the drive appears in File Explorer and can be used by applications, scripts, and users just like a local disk.
This guide explains how to map a network drive in Windows using both the command line.
What Is a Network Drive?
A network drive is a shortcut to a shared folder located on another computer or storage device.
Common examples include:
- Company file shares
- Department folders
- Shared project directories
- Home NAS storage
- Backup repositories
Before You Begin
Ensure you have:
- Access to the network
- Permission to access the shared folder
- The network path (UNC path)
Example network paths: \\ServerName\ShareName
Map a Network Drive Using Command Prompt
Open Command Prompt by pressing Windows + R and type cmd
In the command prompt window type:
net use H: \\FileServer\Shared
(H: is the drive letter)
If credentials are required:
net use H: \\Server01\Shared /user:domain\username
Windows will prompt for a password.
Create a Persistent Drive Mapping
To reconnect automatically after reboot:
net use H: \\Server01\Shared /persistent:yes
Verify mapped drives:
net use