How to fix network drives missing on a Windows computer

Note: the visuals displayed on your screen could vary from the illustrations shown, based on the specific version of Microsoft Windows you are using.

Note: this information is relevant for computers running Windows 10 or 11 (SCCM Template), supported by ITServices (has Asset tag).

Requirements for network drives access:

In order to access UBC network file storage share, you must have your UBC IT supported computer connected to campus network via any of the following methods:

• Campus ubcsecure or ubcoprivate wireless networks
• Campus wired network
• myVPN service (when not on a UBC internet connection)

If requirements are NOT met, attempting to open network drives will result in "path was not found" error message and drives will display a red "X" symbol in File Explorer (with some possibly missing):

Instructions:

Recovering Missing Drives Without a Reboot

1. Confirm that laptop is connected to a campus network as per requirement noted above.
2. Open Windows search, lookup up Software Center application and open it.
Note: If Software Center app cannot be located, please contact IT Service Center (250 807-9000) for support.

3. In Software Center, under applications, select "Network Drives - Staff" application.

4. Click the blue "Install" or "Reinstall" button.

5. In the Terminal window that opens, type in your CWL password and press the "enter" button on your keyboard. Please note that characters will not display when typing for security reasons. If unsuccessful, click the "Install/Retry" button in Software Center to try again.

6. If password entry is successful and application is running, the "Connecting network drives for CWL" message will show.

7. Verify that all drives show on File Explorer (under This PC) and are accessible. Should any drives be missing, please attempt "Recovering Missing Drives Through a Reboot" method.

Recovering Missing Drives Through a Reboot and On-network Sign-in

If you are on campus:

1. Save your work and restart your UBC IT supported computer.
2. On the login screen, ensure that computer connects to the ubcsecure or ubcoprivate network.

3. Sign in to the machine and verify that all drives show on File Explorer and are accessible.

If you are not on campus:

1. Save your work and restart your UBC IT supported computer.
2. On the login screen, verify that you are connected to a network (either wireless or wired).
3. Locate and click on the Network sign-in button in the lower right corner of the screen.
Note: using the VPN Before Login Module requires IT Services supported equipment

4. Click Connect (1). If necessary, enter the VPN server name "myvpn.ok.ubc.ca". In the Cisco AnyConnect window that opens (2), enter your CWL credentials and press OK.

5. Login to Windows using your CWL credentials and verify that all drives show on File Explorer and are accessible.

For more information or assistance, please contact the ITServices Helpdesk - 250.807.9000 or 855.807.9001.
(ONLY FOR UBC STAFF AND FACULTY, NOT FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC)