Mapping a Network Drive on Windows

This article explains how to connect (map) ONU network drives on Windows, including the basic steps in File Explorer, the network paths to use, and options for reconnecting automatically at sign-in or saving a quick shortcut for easy access later.

One-time Connection (quick access)

Map it in File Explorer (recommended)

1. Open File Explorer.

2. In the left sidebar, click This PC.

3. At the top, click … (More) or See more (Windows 11) > Map network drive

   (On Windows 10, it’s usually on the ribbon under Computer > Map network drive.)

4. Choose a Drive letter (common examples):

   • I: for Shared (I Drive)

   • H: for Personal (H Drive)

5. In the Folder box, enter the path you want:

   Shared (I Drive)

   \\hobbes\shared

   Personal (H Drive)

   \\hobbes\users\<username>

6. Click Finish.

7. If prompted, enter your ONU username and password.

   • If you’re off-campus or using a different account, you may need to enter it like:

     <username>@olivet.edu

Your drive will now appear in File Explorer under This PC.

Make the Connection Persistent (automatically reconnect)

If you want the network drive to reconnect every time you sign in:

1. Repeat the steps above, but make sure you check:

   • ✅ Reconnect at sign-in

2. Click Finish and sign in if prompted.

Windows will attempt to remap the drive each time you log in (as long as you’re on ONU Wi-Fi/Ethernet or connected to VPN).

Common Issues

• Not connected to ONU network/VPN: The drive won’t connect off-campus unless you’re on VPN.

• Credential problems: If it keeps prompting or fails, open Control Panel > Credential Manager > Windows Credentials and remove any saved entries for hobbes, then try again.

• Path typo: Use backslashes on Windows, like \\hobbes\shared (not smb://).