We can connect many types of devices to our network. Through operating systems such as Windows we can manage these computers and assign a network drive to them. For example, we can do this with NAS servers that we have for file storage. We can also disconnect those network drives. In this article we are going to talk about how to eliminate those options. How to remove the option to map a network drive or disconnect a network drive. Let’s see what to do in Windows 10.
How to remove map or disconnect network drive options
Windows 10 is today the most used operating system on desktop computers. Therefore, when we deal with any topic related to networks and linked to that system, it can benefit many users. In this case we are going to try to explain how to prevent others from mapping the network, to assign a new device. Also prevent them from being able to disconnect a network drive.
When we map a network drive, we can access files and folders like an FTP server in Windows 10. It is relatively easy to map a network drive using Windows File Explorer and Group Policy Editor. Now this is also available for other users to map a drive or unplug one that is connected. For this reason it is sometimes better to change the settings.
Group Policy Editor
To do this, the first step is to enter the Group Policy Editor . We have to press the Windows + R key combination and run gpedit.msc. Once here we have to click on User Configuration, we go to Administrative Templates, Windows Components and File Explorer.
Here we have to look for the option Remove “Connect to network drive” and “Disconnect from network drive.” We have to double click and then we mark the Enable option. We click Apply and accept the changes.
As we can see, it is a very simple and fast process for Windows 10 users.
Registry editor
Another option we have is to use the Registry Editor . Again we press the Windows + R key combination and this time we execute Regedit. Once inside we have to go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER, SOFTWARE, Microsoft, Windows, Current Version, Policies and Explorer.
Here we have to create a new DWORD value (32-bit) with the name NoNetConnectDisconnect. By default the value will be 0, but we have to set it to 1.
Simply that. From this moment on we will prevent others from being able to map a network drive or disconnect it if it is connected. A way to avoid problems if we share the equipment with other users.
Increase in network connected devices
It is a reality that we have more and more computers connected to the network and that are part of our day to day. We are talking about NAS servers, printers and many other devices that we can manage from our system. Mapping network drives is something that is very present. We can easily configure it and control its use.
The operating systems that we can use for this are different. Now, Windows is still the most used on desktop computers. Mapping network drives is very easy from Microsoft’s system. We can assign a unit or disconnect a device that for some reason does not interest us or we do not want it to be connected.
Of course, in all situations we must maintain security . We cannot make mistakes that could compromise our equipment, that could ultimately damage our privacy. For this reason, we recommend having security tools, having the systems updated correctly and always maintaining common sense. Especially when we talk about devices connected to the network, everything related to security must be taken very seriously.
When it comes to having more devices connected to the network, it means that we must also take extreme security precautions. The goal, as always, is to avoid problems that affect proper operation.