How to connect to a network drive in Windows workstations
1) The Favorites-/Quick access function
2) Adding a network location. Once set, network locations are easy to copy to another computer by an administrator: switching to a new PC is thus easier.
The instructions below show you both the Favorites-/Quick access function and adding a network location.
Previously this page included instructions on mapping a network drive as a drive letter. This is no longer recommended as the drive letters slow the computer considerably. The instructions were updated on 13 August 2025.
Using network drives requires a connection with an Aalto University network (wireless aalto network, wired aalto workstation network or VPN).
For information security reasons, always use the complete directory path when you make links! Correct: \\work.org.aalto.fi\COMMON\public Incorrect:\\work\COMMON\public
Quick access function in Windows 10
1. Open File Explorer (you can also use the keyboard shortcut [win]+e).
2. Type the desired network path on the address line in File Explorer, and press Enter.
3. With the right mouse button, press the Quick access header in the left corner of the File Explorer windows, and select Pin current folder to Quick access.
4. The addition of the link is ready when the name of the folder appears below the Quick access header.
Adding a network location
1. Open File Explorer (you can also use the keyboard shortcut [win]+e).
2. To add a network location, right click This PC on Windows File Explorer
3. Choose Add a network location
4. Follow the instructions on screen and enter the network directory address when asked. For example, \\work.org.aalto.fi\COMMON\organisaatio.
5. Enter a name that is easy for you to understand) for the location. For example, Aalto organisation.
6. After completing the setup you'll find the network location added to File Explorer.
Note: On Aalto Windows 11, network directories are available only from campus network or via Aalto VPN
Related instructions
Taking a remote connection in use on a Windows research workstation (Remote Desktop)
You can open access for your own Windows research workstation via a remote log-in, from your own home computer, for example. The traffic of the remote connection is encrypted, so using it is safe.
Synchronization of files with a file server (Windows)
These instructions describe how the status of Offline Files synchronization can be monitored and how it can forced on manually. The instructions only apply to Windows laptops and research workstations in centralized management by Aalto University.
Restoring a file (Windows, Mac, Linux)
See instructions on how to restore previous versions of your files from back-up folders on the Home or Work disks.