Overview: There are two ways to map a network drive to your desktop, map for one time use and that will reset after a reboot or allow the mapped network drive to always appear and mount on your desktop after system reboots and user logins.
This method connects to and maps a network drive or network share that will be removed if the network connection drops, is disconnected, or if you reboot your Mac:
1. From Finder, select Command+K (or select "Go" in the finder bar) to bring up the "Connect to Server" window.
2. Enter the path to the network drive you want to map, i.e.: smb://userdir/username and select "Connect".
4. The drive will now appear on your desktop and in the Finder Window sidebar.
Note: You can access the network share like any other folder at this point, while the same network is maintained. When off-campus, a VPN connection is required to connect to an RU server share. Instructions to connect to VPN
This method allows you to reboot your Mac and have the mapped network drive/network share automatically connect and remount, appearing on the desktop or in the Finder sidebar.
- From the Finder, select Command+K (or click "Go" in the finder bar).
- Enter the path to the network drive you want to map, i.e.: smb://userdir/username and select “Connect”.
- Enter your login credentials and select “OK.”
- Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.
- Select “Accounts.”
- Select “Login Items.”
- Select the + button to add another login item.
- Locate the network drive you previously mounted and select “Add.”
- Exit System Preferences.
Note: Your network drive will now be mapped and automatically remounted when you reboot your Mac. Keep in mind that if you leave the network where the mapped share is located, the drive/share will not automatically reconnect until that network is joined again, and the Mac is either rebooted or manually reconnected to the desired network share.
If you experience issues or have questions regarding this topic, please contact the Technology Assistance Center at 540-831-7500 or visit www.radford.edu/itonestop for self service.