Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
My Network Places was Windows XP’s shell folder for finding and opening shared folders, printers, workgroup computers, Web folders, and FTP locations. It was a navigation interface—not a networking protocol or a server. Windows 10 and Windows 11 do not use that name; use File Explorer → Network, a direct UNC path such as \ComputerNameShareName, or Map network drive instead.
What My Network Places did
In Windows XP, My Network Places acted as a starting point for network resources. It could show computers in a workgroup, shared folders and drives, shared printers, Web folders, FTP locations, and shortcuts created with the Add Network Place Wizard. Historical descriptions are documented in Windows XP reference material.
These functions are easy to confuse:
- Browse: discover computers or shares that Windows lists.
- Open a known share: enter its exact address, for example
\SERVERDocuments. - Map a network drive: assign a drive letter such as
Z:to a share. - Add a network place: save a shortcut-like entry to a remote location.
A computer appearing in a browse list did not prove that you had permission to open it.
Recommended Free Tools
Which Windows versions used it?
The label is most strongly associated with Windows XP, although Windows 2000 and earlier versions had similar network-resource browsing concepts. The exact wording and location varied by Windows version, edition, and shell settings. It is not a Windows 11 menu.
#1 Best Overall
- Cat-6 UTP (Unshield Twisted Pair) ethernet cables for connecting networked devices such as computers, printers, routers, and more
- RJ45 connectors ensure universal connectivity; 250 MHz bandwidth
- Low signal loss with a transmission speed up to 10 gigabit per second
- Snagless plug design helps prevent damage when plugging/unplugging cable
- Gold-plated contacts and bare copper conductors improve signal integrity and resist corrosion
Open My Network Places in Windows XP
- Click Start.
- Click My Network Places.
If it is missing from the Start menu, open Control Panel, choose Network and Internet Connections, and select My Network Places. You could also reach it through My Computer or Windows Explorer, depending on the Start-menu and folder configuration. See the Windows XP training reference for the historical layout.
Browse to a shared folder or printer
The usual XP sequence was:
- Open My Network Places.
- Choose View workgroup computers.
- Open the relevant workgroup.
- Double-click the computer hosting the resource.
- Double-click the shared folder or printer.
An alternative route was Entire Network → Microsoft Windows Network → workgroup → computer. What appeared depended on discovery, workgroup configuration, the host being online, firewall rules, and whether the folder was actually shared. Microsoft documents cases where firewalls prevented browsing and produced symptoms such as System error 6118 (Microsoft Learn).
Open a known share directly
Browsing is optional if you know the computer and share names. Type a UNC path into the Run dialog (Windows key + R) or an Explorer address bar:
Rank #2
- Cat 6 performance at a Cat5e price but with higher bandwidth
- High Performance Cat6, 30 AWG, RJ45 Ethernet Patch Cable provides universal connectivity for LAN network components such as PCs,computer servers,printers,routers,switch boxes,network media players,NAS,VoIP phones
- Jadaol cat6 standard cable support Cat8 and Cat7 network and provides performance of up to 250 MHz 10Gbps and is suitable for 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX (Fast Ethernet), 1000BASE-T/1000BASE-TX (Gigabit Ethernet) and 10GBASE-T (10-Gigabit Ethernet)
- UTP(Unshielded Twisted Pair) patch cable with RJ45 gold-plated Connectors and are made of 100% bare copper wire, ensure minimal noise and interference
- The unique flat cable shape allows for a cleaner and safer installation. You can easily and seamlessly make the cable run along walls, follow edges & corners or even make it completely invisible by sliding it under a carpet.
\OFFICE-PCPublic
\192.168.1.25DocumentsTo ask a known computer for its available shares, use:
\ComputerNameThis direct approach is often more reliable than a browse list. A hostname can be replaced by an IP address, although an IP may change unless the device has a reservation or static address. Current Microsoft sharing guidance also uses UNC paths for known locations (Microsoft Support).
Add a network place in XP
To save a shortcut-like entry:
- Open My Network Places.
- Select Add a network place and click Next.
- Choose Choose another network location.
- Enter the resource address and click Next.
- Give it a descriptive name and click Finish.
Examples included:
\ComputerNameSharedFolder
http://example.com/folder
ftp://ftp.example.comWeb-folder and FTP support depended on the Windows components and the remote server. An entry saved here was not automatically a drive letter and did not grant access. The historical wizard is illustrated in this Windows XP networking lesson.
Rank #3
- 40 Gbps 2000 Mhz High Speed: The Cat 8 ethernet cable support max. 40 Gbps data transfer and 2000 MHz Brandwith, ideal for gaming and streaming, greatly improving upload and download speed, sound, image and resolution quality
- Excellent Anti-interference: The ethernet cable comes with 4 shielded foiled twisted pairs (F/FTP), pure copper core and gold-plated RJ45 connector, reducing interference, noise and crosstalk, making network speed faster and more stable
- Marvelous Durability: Internet cable wrapped with quality cotton braided cord, which makes the LAN cable stronger and more durable. The test proves that this internet cable can be bent at least 10000 times without broken, very suitable for long-term use
- PoE Supported: All lengths of ethernet cord can support the PoE power supply function except 65ft. You don't need additional power supply when installing a PoE camera, which is very convenient and safe
- Wide Compatibility: With the RJ45 Connector, network cable can be perfectly compatible with computers, laptops, modems, routers, PS5, X-Box and other networking devices. It can also be fully backward compatible with Cat7, Cat6e, Cat6, Cat5e, Cat5
Network place versus mapped drive
| Feature | What it provides |
|---|---|
| Network place | A convenient saved entry for a remote location. |
| Mapped network drive | A drive letter, such as Z:, visible in My Computer or File Explorer. |
A network-place shortcut does not create a drive letter, and a mapped drive is not necessarily listed inside My Network Places. Neither option bypasses authentication or share permissions. The XP Resource Kit distinguishes these concepts (reference).
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
The Windows 10/11 replacement
| Windows XP | Windows 10/11 equivalent |
|---|---|
| My Network Places | File Explorer → Network |
| View workgroup computers | Network discovery |
| Open a shared folder | Enter \ServerShare |
| Add a Network Place | Use a direct path, Explorer shortcut, or cloud-service link |
| Map a network drive | This PC → More → Map network drive |
Browse devices
- Press
Windows key + Eto open File Explorer. - Select Network in the navigation pane.
- If prompted, choose Turn on network discovery and file sharing.
Alternatively, open Settings, search for Manage advanced sharing settings, and enable Network discovery and File and printer sharing under Private networks. A Public network profile intentionally restricts visibility.
Map a drive
- In File Explorer, select This PC.
- Select More on the command bar and choose Map network drive. If it is not shown, right-click This PC and choose the same command.
- Choose a drive letter and enter the network folder path.
- Optionally select Reconnect at sign-in, then select Finish.
From Command Prompt, a technical user can map the same share with:
Rank #4
- High-Performance Connectivity: This Cat 6 ethernet cable is designed for superior performance, with a 24 AWG copper wire core. It provides universal connectivity as an ethernet cord for LAN network components such as PCs, servers, printers, routers, and more, ensuring reliable and fast network connections
- Advanced Cat6 Technology: Experience Cat6 performance with higher bandwidth at a Cat5e price. This network cable is future-proof, ready for 10-Gigabit Ethernet and backwards compatible with any existing Cat 5 cable network. It meets or exceeds Category 6 performance according to the TIA/EIA 568-C.2 standard
- Reliable Wired Network Solution: Known variously as a Cat6 network cable, ethernet cable Cat 6, or Cat 6 data/LAN cable, this RJ45 cable offers a more secure and reliable connection than wireless networks. It's ideal for internet connections that demand consistency and security
- Durable and Secure Design: The connectors of this ethernet cable feature gold-plated contacts and strain-relief boots for enhanced durability. Bare copper conductors not only improve cable performance but also comply with communication cable specifications
- High-Speed Data Transfer: With up to 550 MHz bandwidth, this ethernet cord is ideal for server applications, cloud computing, video surveillance, and streaming high-definition video. It also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE, PoE+, PoE++) for powering devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, ensuring fast and reliable network performance.
net use Z: \ComputerNameShareName
net use Z: \ComputerNameShareName /user:ComputerNameUserName *The asterisk prompts for the password instead of putting it in the command line.
Share a folder
- Right-click the folder and choose Show more options.
- Select Give access to, then Specific people.
- Choose the intended account, or Everyone only when that broader local-network access is acceptable.
Sharing and security permissions are separate controls; the more restrictive effective permission applies.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Troubleshooting
“My Network Places” or Network is empty
- Confirm both devices are on the same local network and the host is powered on.
- Verify that the folder is shared.
- Try the exact UNC path, then the host’s IP address.
- Check credentials and share permissions.
- Enable discovery and file-and-printer sharing on a trusted private network.
- Check the firewall profile and rules.
- If browsing remains unreliable, use a direct path or map the drive.
Discovery is only a directory service. It can fail while a direct connection still works.
Best Value
- Designed for Outdoor & Direct Burial Installations – Heavy-duty double-shielded Cat8 Ethernet cable minimizes EMI/RFI interference and delivers stable long-distance performance. Waterproof, anti-corrosion PVC jacket allows safe direct burial and reliable use in outdoor or indoor environments.
- 26AWG for Stable High-Load Networks – Thicker 26AWG conductors provide faster, more stable data transmission than standard 32AWG cables. Ideal for high-performance home networks, gaming setups, smart homes, and data-intensive applications.
- F/FTP Shielding & Hyper-Speed Performance: Cat8 Ethernet cable constructed with 4 shielded foiled twisted pairs and 26AWG OFC conductors; supports bandwidth up to 2000 MHz and data transmission speeds up to 40 Gbps, effectively reducing signal interference and ensuring stable connections. Ideal for low-latency gaming, 4K/8K streaming, and high-speed internet connections.
- RJ45 Connectors & Wide Compatibility: Cat8 Ethernet cable with two shielded RJ45 connectors; compatible with networking switches, IP cameras, routers, Nintendo Switch, modems, PS3, PS4, Xbox, patch panels, servers, smart TVs, and more; works with Cat7, Cat6, Cat5e, and Cat5 devices
- Weatherproof & UV Resistant: Outdoor-rated Cat8 Ethernet cable with UV-resistant PVC jacket; withstands direct sunlight, extreme cold, humidity, and hot weather; anti-aging and durable; Includes 18-month support.
“I can see the computer but cannot open it”
Visibility and authorization are different. Check the username and password, share permissions, NTFS permissions, SMB availability, and whether the firewall allows file and printer sharing on the local network. Do not open TCP ports 135–139 or 445 to the public Internet; Microsoft explicitly warns against exposing SMB in that way (guidance).
Network discovery will not turn on
Ensure the connection is classified as Private, then check the Function Discovery Provider Host, Function Discovery Resource Publication, SSDP Discovery, and UPnP Device Host services. Changing services or firewall rules may require administrator rights. Microsoft’s current troubleshooting steps are in its network-sharing article.
A NAS works in its app but is absent from Network
Manufacturer apps, DLNA/UPnP, and SMB file sharing are different protocols. The device may work in its app without advertising a browsable SMB share. If SMB is enabled, use the actual share path, such as \NASNameShareName, and valid NAS credentials. Update the NAS and prefer SMB2 or SMB3. Do not enable obsolete SMB1 merely because an old device is missing; treat it only as a documented, last-resort legacy exception.
Choosing the right replacement today
- Local SMB share: best for computers or a NAS on the same home or office LAN. It keeps data local but requires a powered-on host, permissions, and firewall configuration.
- Mapped drive: convenient for a frequently used share or applications that require a drive letter. It can break when names, addresses, credentials, or network availability change.
- Direct UNC path: the clearest troubleshooting method when discovery is incomplete. It requires the exact server and share names.
- NAS: useful for persistent central storage, backups, and multiple computers, but it requires updates, account management, and reliable backups.
- OneDrive or another cloud service: appropriate for Internet sharing and access from different locations. It requires an account and Internet access and is not the same as a live SMB share. Microsoft recommends cloud sharing rather than exposing local SMB to the Internet (support guidance).
For remote access to a local share, use a properly configured VPN or managed remote-access service—not public SMB exposure. OneDrive’s current desktop requirements include Windows 10 version 22H2 or Windows 11; Windows 10 itself reached end of support on October 14, 2025.
The Bottom Line
If an old tutorial says “open My Network Places,” follow it only on Windows XP. On current Windows, open File Explorer → Network or enter the share directly as \ServerShare; map it from This PC when you need a persistent drive letter.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
