Setting up shortcuts to quickly access drives and folders in times of need is a common practice among modern Windows users. Still, it’s not uncommon for shortcuts to act up and prevent access to drives or folders that were accessible a short while ago. A prime example of that is “The drive or network connection that the shortcut refers to is unavailable” error. Spare a bit of time to check out this article if you wish to return your shortcuts to normal.
A Few Fixes
Make Use Of Map Network Drive
As the name suggests, Map Network Drive allows the mapping of drives in a network. Thus, it’s possible to resolve “the drive or network connection that the shortcut refers to is unavailable” error using Map Network Drive.
- Step 1: Press Windows + E to open File Explorer, pick This PC to the left and choose Computer on the top.
- Step 2: Choose Map Network Drive then select the drive letter from the Drive drop-down list.
- Step 3: Either use Browse to locate the network drive or type the UNC path in the field beside Folder.
- Step 4: Hit Finish.
Check Out Files/Shortcuts
As you move files between computers and storage devices (USB, HDD, etc), it is essential to move files instead of shortcuts. In the case that you open shortcuts of files that don’t exist on your computer at the time, “the drive or network connection that the shortcut refers to is unavailable” error should show up. To take care of the error, you have to delete the current shortcuts, move the original files to your computer and create new shortcuts.
Apply Changes To The Shortcut
In the case that your shortcuts don’t work as expected, they may have been changed to point to the wrong spot. Therefore, if you notice “the drive or network connection that the shortcut refers to is unavailable” error, you should consider modifying the shortcuts.
- Step 1: Go to your file, right-click it, select Properties and copy everything in Location.
- Step 2: Go to the shortcut of your file, right-click it, select Properties and paste everything into the field next to Target.
- Step 3: Choose OK.
What Is Windows 10 IoT Core?
Windows 10 Internet of Things (IoT) Core is an operating system designed for electronic devices which perform processing without the need or use of a display. These devices run on x86/ x64 or ARM processors. This operating system facilitates interconnection, updating, management and security of these devices.
How Does Windows 10 Mobile Benefit The User?
This operating system was developed for use in smartphones and tablets. It offers portable access to document processing, Universal Windows Platform applications and enhanced connectivity with external devices such as smart TVs and projectors for smoother telecommuting.
What Are The Basic Requirements For Running Windows 10 In Your Personal Computer (PC)?
To run Windows 10 successfully on your computer, it is necessary to have a processor running at a speed of 1GHz or faster and 1 GB RAM for 32-bit or 2GB RAM for 64-bit. The machine must also have a hard disk capacity of 16GB for the 32-bit or 20GB for 64-bit. Along with this, it needs to have a Direct X 9 or later Graphics Card featuring a WDDM 1.0 driver. Your monitor also needs to have a resolution of 1024×600 or more.
Will My Applications Be Maintained After Upgrading To Windows 10?
Yes. All your applications will still be available after upgrading to Windows 10.
Guidelines
- When your monitor is full of windows, it is possible to minimize all the rest by shaking the active one. Click and hold the window title bar using your mouse pointer and shake it. The others will minimize automatically. They can be returned by shaking the active window again.
- Enthusiasts of the Command Line Interface (CLI) can customize the look and appearance of their Command Prompt windows. To do this, right-click on the window’s title bar and then select Properties. From there, use the options provided to change the font, controls, cursor and colors of the Command Prompt window. Notably, it is possible to even change the transparency of the window by dragging an opacity slider for easier coding while also observing the desktop.
- When working with Microsoft Word, it is possible to dictate instead of type. To achieve this, press on Windows plus H to activate the voice recording feature. It will capture your voice and turn your spoken words into typed text.
- A unique file sharing feature in Windows 10 is Nearby Sharing which enables users to transfer files from the computer system to a Windows 10 phone, tablet or computer. To use this feature, open the file which is to be shared and click on the share icon on the top of its toolbar. Proceed to Turn On Nearby Sharing so that the file can be shared to another device.
- Users that utilize the Windows 10 operating system in a touch enabled device such as a 2-in-1 or a tablet can make use of the slide to shut down feature. This facility enables the user to drag downwards to shut down the unit. This can be achieved by right clicking on the desktop and selecting New then Shortcut. After that, type SlideToShutDown as the location of the file. Proceed to rename the file appropriately and choose Properties. After that, enter a confidential key in the Shortcut key box and select Apply. Having completed this process, double-tap on your shortcut to reveal a pull down shade which can be dragged downwards to shut down your device.
Hoang Tu is a seasoned Microsoft Windows expert with a strong IT background. Studying at Hanoi Bach Khoa University, he gained valuable experience at Hanoi Computer and FPT Soft before joining Milagro Mobile Marketing. Specializing in providing tips and tutorials on Windows for global users, Hoang Tu’s expertise covers various Windows versions. With a talent for clear communication, he offers practical solutions and advice to users of all skill levels. His dedication to empowering individuals in their Windows experience has earned him recognition in the tech community, making him a trusted resource for optimizing system performance and resolving technical issues.