How to map a network drive in Windows

Problem

You have a need to connect to a network drive to access shared data contained within.

Environment

All USJ owned Windows computers while connected to either the wired or wireless networks on campus, or via Forticlient VPN.

Resolution

NOTE:  You will need to be granted security access to the shared folder you wish to map.  If you receive a message that 'Access is Denied' or 'You do not have permission to access this resource,' you may request access via the service located here Shared Network Drive Access Request.

1. Press Win + E to open a File Explorer window.
2. In Windows 10, right click "This PC" from the left side of the window.
3. Click the Map Network Drive button.
4. The Map Network Drive dialog box appears. 
5. Choose a drive letter.  (Do not use A, B, C, D, E, F, I,R or U)
6. Pick something from the list of available letters. You might want to consider using something high-up so that the mapped network drive won’t interfere with any removable storage you add to your PC.
7. Choose the location you want to map (access)
   1. You may enter the UNC path directly in the Folder box (format = \\usj.edu\usj-dfs\foldername)  If provided, paste the link sent to you by IT.
   2. Or, click the Browse button and a mini network window appears, listing available storage devices on the network.  These are locations flagged for shared folders.
      • Select a network computer or server and then a shared folder.
8. If prompted, type your username and password to access the network resource.
9.  Ensure that the Reconnect at Sign-in (or Logon) option is checked.
10. Click the Finish button.

Cause