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Home > HelpDesk > Accessing a Windows Network Share from macOS
Accessing a Windows Network Share from macOS
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If you receive a network folder path from a Windows user (for example: \\gispwXXXXX\ACBG_XXXX_Shared) and you are using a Mac, follow the steps below to connect.

Why is this needed

Windows and macOS use different file path formats:

  • Windows: Uses backslashes (\)
  • macOS: Uses forward slashes (/) and requires the smb:// prefix

 

Steps to Connect on a Mac

  1. Open Finder
  2. From the top menu, click Go > Connect to Server
    (Shortcut: press Command (⌘) + K)
  3. In the Server Address field, enter the path in this format:

    smb://gispwXXXXX/ACBG_XXXX_Shared

  4. Click Connect
  5. Enter your network credentials if prompted:
  6. Click OK

 

Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Make sure you are connected to the Staff WiFi network or physically ( If you are off campus, you will need a VPN).
  • If the connection fails, double-check the server name and folder path.
  • You can click the “+” button in the Connect to Server window to save the address for future use.
  • Once connected, the shared folder will appear in Finder under Locations.

 

Example Conversion

Windows Path

macOS Format
\\gispwXXXXX\ACBG_XXXX_Shared smb://gispwXXXXX/ACBG_XXXX_Shared
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