Create a batch file named mapdrive.bat and put the following inside it:
1 2 3 4 |
Explanation:
- Line 1 is a comment.
- Line 2 (and similarly line 3) maps the network share \\server1\john_music to drive J:.
- Line 4 pauses the DOS window so it doesn’t close automatically.
A few useful additions.
If you want the mapping to survive a reboot, add the /persistent:yes flag. Without it, the mapping is gone the next time you log in:
1 | net use j: \\server1\john_music /persistent:yes |
If the share requires credentials, pass them with /user: — the password is prompted for if you omit it (which is the safer habit; embedding it in a batch file leaves it readable to anyone with access):
1 | net use j: \\server1\john_music /user:DOMAIN\jdoe |
To remove a mapping later:
1 2 | net use j: /delete net use * /delete /yes REM remove all mappings without prompting |
And to see what’s currently mapped:
1 | net use |
The PowerShell equivalent. If you’re on a modern Windows and want a more scriptable approach, New-PSDrive covers the same ground:
1 2 | New-PSDrive -Name J -PSProvider FileSystem ` -Root \\server1\john_music -Persist |
The -Persist flag is the equivalent of net use … /persistent:yes. Note that New-PSDrive without -Persist creates a mapping that’s only visible to the current PowerShell session, which is sometimes exactly what you want for a script that shouldn’t leave drive letters lying around afterward.