You can access a Synology shared folder from Windows 11 through SMB and optionally map it to a drive letter. The NAS must have SMB file service enabled, and your Synology account must have permission to the shared folder.
Step 1: Confirm SMB is enabled on the Synology NAS
In Synology DSM, verify that the SMB file service is enabled using Synology’s current File Services settings. Use current SMB versions rather than enabling obsolete SMB1 for routine Windows 11 access.
Step 2: Find the NAS name or local address
Note the Synology server name or its appropriate local network address.
Step 3: Open File Explorer
Press Windows + E and select This PC.
Step 4: Choose Map network drive
Use File Explorer’s Map network drive command and choose an available drive letter.
Step 5: Enter the shared-folder path
Enter a path such as \\NAS-name\SharedFolder. Replace those names with the actual server and share names.
Step 6: Connect with an authorized account
Choose the credential option appropriate for your setup and enter a Synology account that has permission to the share. Do not use an administrator account merely for convenience if a normal account is sufficient.
Step 7: Finish and test the drive
Complete the wizard, open the mapped drive, and verify that you can access only the files your account should be able to use.
If the Synology Drive Will Not Map
Check that the PC and NAS can reach each other, SMB is enabled, the share name is correct, and DSM permissions allow the account to connect. Firewall, VLAN, VPN, and name-resolution settings can also affect access.
Security Note
Do not expose SMB file sharing directly to the public Internet. For remote NAS access, use a supported and appropriately secured Synology or network remote-access solution instead of forwarding SMB ports from the router.
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