Network Drive

A network drive is a folder (or disk volume) located on a local server or shared storage device on your LAN (Local Area Network).

Key Points:

• Prerequisites:

  • Access to a shared directory on your network.

  • Network permissions set up so that all team members have read/write access.

• Setup:

  • Create a shared folder on the server, or identify an existing one.

  • Place your central file in this folder so all team members can open and save directly from the network location.

• Advantages:

  • Typically faster and more stable than a cloud solution if everyone is on the same local network.

  • Fewer sync delays compared to cloud-based tools when everyone is physically close to the server.

• Considerations:

  • Team members must be connected to the network to work on the file.

  • Potential single point of failure if the network or server goes down.

  • Remote access may require a VPN or remote desktop solution if users are off-site.

Usage Tips:

• Ensure the central file is not moved or renamed without coordination, as this can cause broken references.

• Keep track of who is editing the file at any given time. Locking or a check-out mechanism helps prevent file conflicts.

Selecting the Central File

Once you’ve connected to the shared network folder, you need to choose which file will serve as the central model:

1. Open the File Dialog: Navigate to the shared directory on your network drive.

2. Pick the Central File: Select the file designated as the collaboration “source of truth.”

3. Confirm Access: Ensure you have read/write permissions. If you’re not sure, check with your network administrator.