How to Map Network Drives as Local Folders on Android?

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Android devices have become an integral part of our lives, allowing us to stay connected and productive on the go. One of the great features of Android is its ability to access and manage files stored on other devices or networks. In this article, we will explore how to map a network drive on Android and access it as a local folder.

To get started, we need to open the Files application on our Android device. This application allows us to browse and manage files stored on our device as well as on connected networks. Once the Files application is open, scroll down to find the section labeled “Network Storage” and tap on it.

Inside the Network Storage section, we will find an option to add network storage. Tap on this option to begin the process of adding a network drive. Android will then start scanning for locally shared drives that are available for connection.

Once the scan is complete, we will see a list of available drives. Select the drive that you want to map as a network drive on your Android device. Android will prompt you to enter the necessary credentials, such as username and password, to access the drive. Enter the required information and tap on “Connect” or “Finish” to complete the process.

After successfully connecting to the network drive, Android will create a shortcut to it in the Files application. This shortcut will appear as a local folder, allowing you to easily access and manage the files stored on the network drive.

With the network drive mapped as a local folder on your Android device, you can now browse, open, edit, and transfer files between your device and the network drive. This feature comes in handy when you need to access important documents, photos, or media files stored on a different device or network.

It’s important to note that the process of mapping a network drive may vary depending on the Android device and the network configuration. Some devices may require additional settings or permissions to access network drives. It’s always a good idea to consult the device’s user manual or the manufacturer’s support website for specific instructions.

Android devices offer the flexibility to access and manage files stored on network drives. By mapping a network drive as a local folder, you can easily browse, open, and transfer files between your Android device and the network drive. This feature enhances your productivity by allowing you to access important files on the go. So, go ahead and explore the possibilities of mapping a network drive on your Android device.

How to Map Network Drives as Local Folders on Android? 1

How Do You Map a Network Folder as a Local Drive?

To map a network folder as a local drive in Windows, follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer by clicking on its icon in the taskbar or by pressing the Windows logo key + E on your keyboard.

2. From the left pane in File Explorer, select “This PC”.

3. In the toolbar at the top, click on the “Map network drive” button. This will open the “Map Network Drive” window.

4. In the “Drive” drop-down menu, select a letter to assign to the network drive. You can choose any available letter that is not already in use.

5. In the “Folder” field, you have two options:

– Type the path of the network folder directly. For example, if the network folder is located on a server named “FileServer” and the folder you want to map is named “SharedFolder”, you would enter “\\FileServer\SharedFolder” (without the quotes).

– Click on the “Browse” button to search for the network folder. This will open a new window where you can navigate to the desired folder. Once you find it, select it and click “OK”.

6. If you want the mapped network drive to be available each time you start your computer, check the box next to “Reconnect at sign-in”. This will ensure that the drive is automatically connected every time you log in.

7. Click on the “Finish” button to complete the mapping process.

Once you finish these steps, the network folder will be mapped as a local drive on your computer. You can access it through File Explorer or any other application that allows you to browse your drives. The mapped drive will behave just like any other local drive, allowing you to open, save, and manage files and folders within it.

How Do You Access Your Local Network Drive on Android?

To access your local network drive on your Android device, follow these steps:

1. Open the Files application on your Android device. This app is usually pre-installed on most Android devices, but if you don’t have it, you can download it from the Google Play Store.

2. Once you have the Files app open, scroll down until you see the section labeled “Network Storage.” Tap on it to open.

3. Inside the Network Storage section, you will find an option to “Add network storage.” Tap on this option to proceed.

4. Your Android device will start scanning for locally shared drives on your network. This may take a few moments.

5. Once the scan is complete, you should see a list of available network drives. Tap on the drive you want to access.

6. If required, you may need to enter the username and password for the network drive to authenticate your access. Enter the necessary information and tap on “Connect” or “OK.”

7. After successfully connecting to the network drive, you should now be able to browse and access the files and folders stored on it using the Files app on your Android device.

Note: Make sure that your Android device is connected to the same local network as the network drive you want to access. Additionally, some network drives may require specific configurations or permissions to be accessed from an Android device, so consult the documentation or contact the administrator of your network drive if you encounter any issues.

How Do You Access Your NAS Drive on Android?

To access your NAS drive on Android, follow these steps:

1. Tap the More icon (represented by three vertical dots) located on the upper right corner of your Android device’s screen.
2. From the dropdown menu, select Settings.
3. In the Settings menu, locate and tap on Remote access.
4. Enter the email address and password associated with your remote access account.
5. Tap Sign in to proceed.
6. A list of storage devices will be displayed. Select your NAS drive from the list.
7. Once you have selected your NAS drive, you will be able to access the files stored in its Public folder.

It’s worth noting that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of your Android device. However, the general process remains the same.

Conclusion

Android is a powerful and versatile operating system that offers a wide range of features and functions. It allows users to access and manage their Windows files from their Android devices through network storage. By mapping a network drive in Windows, users can easily access their files and folders on their Android devices using the Files application. Additionally, users can also access their media remotely by setting up remote access on their Android device. This allows them to access files on their NAS (Network Attached Storage) and view their media files from anywhere. Android provides a seamless and convenient way to access and manage files, making it a valuable tool for users who need to stay connected and productive on the go.

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Sanjeev Singh

Sanjeev is the tech editor at DeviceMAG. He has a keen interest in all things technology, and loves to write about the latest developments in the industry. He has a passion for quality-focused journalism and believes in using technology to make people's lives better. He has worked in the tech industry for over 15 years, and has written for some of the biggest tech blogs in the world. Sanjeev is also an avid photographer and loves spending time with his family.