How to Add or Remove Network Locations in Windows 11
This guide will walk you through adding and removing network locations in Windows 11.
Add a network location by opening File Explorer, right-clicking This PC, selecting “Add a network location,” and following the wizard to enter the network address and name. Remove one by right-clicking the location in File Explorer and selecting Delete.
What Is a Network Location?
A network location in Windows 11 acts like a shortcut to files on another computer or server, letting you easily get to shared folders or websites straight from File Explorer.
A network location offers a cleaner File Explorer experience compared to a mapped network drive. A mapped network drive occupies a drive letter, such as Z: or Y:, while a network location does not. Managing files on a remote server becomes straightforward, appearing as if those files reside on your personal computer.
Prerequisites: Preparing Your Network
Mapped Drives vs. Network Locations
Mapped drives and network locations both connect you to network resources, but they work differently in Windows 11; a mapped drive gets its own drive letter like Z:, while a network location is just a shortcut for quick access.
How to Add a Network Location in 🪟 Windows 11
Step 1Open File Explorer
Click the folder icon on your taskbar.
Step 2Access the Network Location Menu
Right-click This PC in the left sidebar. Click ‘Show more options’.
Select Add a network location.
Step 3Start the Setup Wizard
Click Next on the welcome screen.
Step 4Choose a Custom Network Location
Select Choose a custom network location and click Next.
Step 5Type the Network Address
Enter your address. You’ll use this for FTP sites, websites, or Windows file shares. For example, use ftp://example.com for FTP, http://example.com for websites, or \\server\share for Windows file shares.
Step 6Log In Information
If a network server requires authentication, enter your user name. If the network server allows public access without a password, choose the "Log on anonymously" option, which grants access without requiring any login details.
Step 7Name Your Location
Give it a name you will recognize later.
Step 8Finish Setup
Click Finish.
Step 9Log In to the Server
Enter your username and password when the computer asks. Saving these login details in the Windows Credentials Manager makes logging in simpler for future network access.
Your new folder will appear under Network Location in File Explorer.
How to Remove a Network Location
Deleting a network location shortcut in Windows 11 removes only the link to the shared folder, not the actual files stored on the remote server. This action safeguards your data because the original files remain accessible from other devices connected to the network.
Summary
Network locations are a great 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.
Why does my network location keep disconnecting?
This often happens if your internet connection is unstable or the server goes to sleep. Check your network settings and ensure the remote server is active. If you are using a VPN, ensure it is connected before trying to access the location, as the path may be unreachable otherwise.
How to fix ‘Windows cannot access’ errors when adding a network location?
If you see the ‘Windows cannot access’ error when adding a network location, it usually means your PC can’t find the server or you lack permission; first, check that Network Discovery is on and use the correct server address.
Can I add a network location for an FTP server in 🪟 Windows 11?
Yes, you can. Windows 11 supports FTP natively. Simply follow the ‘Add a network location’ wizard and enter your FTP address starting with ftp://. Once added, you can drag and drop files between your computer and the FTP server directly within File Explorer without needing third-party software.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
Hi Richard,
Thanks for your article. Very useful with W11 dialogues..
It is not clear in your article how to differentially access FTP and SFTP. I believe this is achieved by using port 21 for FTP and 22 SFTP but windows doesn’t seen to provide you with a port choice. There is a warning on the LogOnAs dialogue box about entering using FTP but I cant see how you can be sure you’re using SFTP. Also what is sFTP?
TQ Paul.
This page claims to show how to connect to SFTP, but does not actually demonstrate an SFTP connection. FTP is not SFTP, it seems the author got those two confused.
[…] The Network icon is included in the File Explorer navigation pane by default. This makes it easier for users to browse their local network locations. […]