How to Add or Remove Network Locations in Windows 11

This guide explains how to add or remove network locations in Windows 11.

What Is a Network Location?

A network location is a shortcut to remote files. Think of it like a bookmark for your computer. It lets you access FTP sites, web servers, or shared folders directly from File Explorer. You do not need extra software to use it.

Why use a network location? It keeps your File Explorer clean. Unlike a mapped network drive, it does not take up a drive letter like Z: or Y:. It is a great way to manage files on a remote server as if they were on your own PC.

Prerequisites: Preparing Your Network

Before you start, you must ensure your computer can see other devices. This is called Network Discovery. If this is off, you will not be able to connect to shared folders.

[ADMIN PRIVILEGES REQUIRED] To enable this, go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Advanced sharing settings. Turn on Network discovery and File and printer sharing.

Mapped Drives vs. Network Locations

Many users confuse these two. A Mapped Network Drive assigns a drive letter to a folder. It acts like a physical hard drive. A Network Location is just a shortcut. Use a mapped drive if you need software to see the folder as a local disk. Use a network location for quick, occasional access to web or FTP resources.

How to Add a Network Location in Windows 11

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Click the folder icon on your taskbar.

Step 2: Access the Network Location Menu

Right-click This PC in the left sidebar. Click Show more options.

Select Add a network location.

Step 3: Start the Setup Wizard

Click Next on the welcome screen.

Step 4: Choose a Custom Network Location

Select Choose a custom network location and click Next.

Step 5: Type the Network Address

Enter your address. Use ftp://example.com for FTP, http://example.com for websites, or \\server\share for Windows file shares.

Step 6: Log In Information

If the server needs a password, enter your username. If it is public, choose Log on anonymously.

Step 7: Name Your Location

Give it a name you will recognize later.

Step 8: Finish Setup

Click Finish.

Step 9: Log In to the Server

Enter your credentials when prompted. You can save these in the Windows Credentials Manager for easier access next time.

Your new folder will appear under Network Location in File Explorer.

How to Remove a Network Location

Right-click the folder and select Delete. This removes the shortcut but does not delete the files on the remote server.

Summary

Network locations are a simple way to access remote files. Always ensure Network Discovery is on. Use them for FTP or web shares to keep your computer organized. For more help with sharing, visit the official Microsoft file sharing guide.” }