How to Map a Network Drive on a Mac

This article explains how to set up a mapped drive on a Mac and how to reconnect to the shared folders automatically after a reboot. These directions are for Macs running macOS Sonoma, but they can easily be adapted for other versions of macOS.

How to Map a Network Drive on Mac

Instead of downloading or copying the same data to all your devices, save the files in a single folder and then share the folder with your other devices. With the shared folder ready to go, follow these steps to map the network drive:

1. Launch Finder.

2. Click Go > Connect to Server. If you prefer to use the keyboard, press Command+K.

3. Enter the path to the network drive and then select Connect. It should start like this in most cases:

    smb://
   

4. If you're prompted for a confirmation, click Connect.

   Accounts that don't have permission to access this file/folder are unable to create a connection to the network drive.

5. Once the network drive has been mapped, it will appear under the Locations menu in any Finder window, and on your desktop (if not, go to Finder > Settings and turn on Connected servers).

   Since mapped drives show up as mounted drives on your macOS device, you're able to disconnect from them by ejecting the drive.

How to Auto-Mount a Network Drive on macOS

To automatically connect to your favorite network drives after a reboot, add them to the Open at Login area of System Settings.

1. Click the Apple logo and then choose System Settings or, if you're using an older version of macOS, System Preferences.

2. Search for Login Items, or select it from the General menu.

3. Drag the shares from the desktop into the Open at Login screen. Or, click the plus sign, select the shares in the pop-up window, and then choose Open or Add.